New York City FC started the Leagues Cup in style this year with a 2-0 win over Santos Laguna on Thursday night at Sports Illustrated Stadium. While the defense was able to do all the goalscoring, it was goalkeeper Matt Freese who showed what he is capable of as he came away with big saves in order to not just keep the clean sheet but also the momentum on the competition’s opening night.
“We’re happy to have Matt Freese behind the backline because he’s capable of making those saves,” said Jansen when expressing his gratitude from the American’s fantastic play. “He showed his quality, his presence and his personality. He’s the captain now when Thiago (Martins) isn’t available. That doesn’t surprise me because I see him every day. But there’s still room for him to improve and that’s what he’s working on.”
Freese has returned from the FIFA World Cup with something to prove. A mistake again Belgium saw many fans of the international game criticize the goalkeeper, ignoring his wildly impressive resume in league play and what he has done internationally before that mishap. Now, since his return, NYCFC has gone undefeated with three wins and one draw. The clean sheet also represented his fourth of the season in all competition.
While praise always seems to fall on field players, Freese has made the conversation about him and is arguably the most valuable player for NYCFC. The goalkeeping role was one that several coaches before Jansen looked at as one left up to competition. The departure of Sean Johnson years ago left a void which Freese quickly pounced on and has yet to relinquish. Thursday’s performance continues to show why he has the role and why Jansen and City have little concerns about who is occupying such a key role.
“He had a massive save in the first half on his left side,” said Jansen specifically about Freese’s efforts. “Then there was a one-on-one in the second half where he made another massive save. Even when you dominate games, the opponent is always going to get one or two big chances and those were big moments.”
NYC will remain at Sports Illustrated Stadium as they return play Cruz Azul on Sunday night. It is the second of three group stage games which has already started quite positively for the club.
photo from NYCFC