RECAP: Denkey Second Half Goal Sinks Red Bulls

New York Red Bulls surrender a late second half goal to lose their first game of the 2025 season against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. The game which saw new names like Eric Maxime Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia make their debuts, was ruined by a goal against the run of play in the 70th minute by Cincinnati forward Kevin Denkey. Despite the team’s best efforts they were unable to thwart a stout defensive effort and fail to grab their first attempt at road points this season.

Both team had issues grabbing the momentum in the game during the first half. While Red Bulls looks strong moving forward, there were defensive lapses that felt worrisome heading into the second half. new forward Choupo-Moting found himself connecting well with the midfield and finding a chance in the 36th minute with a back heel effort that was blocked. Forward Lewis Morgan also worked hard, garnering efforts with little reward.

The second half saw Red Bulls controlling more of the game but not creating dangerous opportunities. Finally it was a ball to Denkey towards the middle of the box that went undefended that led to the away team’s undoing. Red Bulls continued to press after surrendering the goal but Pat Noonan and his club kept efforts few and far between in order to give the Ohio club their first win of the 2025 campaign.

While the effort was there, it is disappointing for the Red Bulls who come into the season with high expectations. The loss is one that will be felt for the coming week as the club will open their season at Sports Illustrated Stadium on March 1st against Nashville SC.

STARTING XI:

New York Red Bulls: Carballo; Eile, S. Nealis, Hack (79′ Hall), Valencia, Harper, Edelman (84′ Carmona), Stroud (79′ Carballo), Forsberg, Choupo-Moting, Morgan

FC Cincinnati: Celantano; Yedlin, Hadebe, Robinson, Flores (85′ Powell), Engel, Bucha (90′ Chirila), Nwobodo, Evander (72′ Anunga), Denkey, Kubo (72′ Baird)

SCORING SUMMARY:
70′ (FC Cincinnati) Kevin Denkey (1) assisted by DeAndre Yedlin

DISCIPLINE:
59′ (New York Red Bulls) Alexander Hack – YELLOW CARD
64′ (FC Cincinnati) Obinna Nwobodo – YELLOW CARD
88′ (FC Cincinnati) Corey Baird – YELLOW CARD