Can the New York Red Bulls keep their incredible playoff streak alive this Saturday against the Columbus Crew? With an MLS record on the line and a formidable home record, Harrison, N.J. is set for an epic showdown. Will the Red Bulls cement their postseason spot, or will the Crew spoil the party despite their recent struggles?

The New York Red Bulls are gearing up for a crucial showdown against the Columbus Crew this Saturday in Harrison, N.J., with their sights set firmly on extending a remarkable playoff streak. This pivotal match will test the team’s resolve as they battle for a postseason berth in a tightly contested Eastern Conference.

Currently, the Red Bulls hold an 11-11-6 record, totaling 39 points, placing them in a tie with Chicago for the ninth and final playoff spot. With only six matches remaining in the regular season, every point becomes paramount, especially considering the Fire have played one fewer match, adding pressure to New York’s quest.

What truly elevates the stakes is the Red Bulls’ historic achievement: an MLS-record 15 consecutive playoff appearances. This stands as the longest active streak in North American men’s professional sports, a testament to the club’s enduring consistency and a legacy they are fiercely determined to uphold against the Columbus Crew.

The Red Bulls enter this encounter with significant home-field advantage, boasting an impressive 10-2-2 record at home, including a strong 4-1-1 run in their last six matches played on their turf. This formidable home form will be a crucial factor as they aim to secure three vital points against a challenging opponent.

A key catalyst for New York’s success, particularly at home, has been the influential captain Emil Forsberg. The Swedish midfielder has been in sensational form, contributing to a goal in five consecutive home matches. Furthermore, Forsberg has a notable record against the Crew, having scored three career goals in as many matches against them, making him a player to watch.

In contrast, the Columbus Crew, currently seventh in the Eastern Conference with a 12-6-9 record and 45 points, arrive in Harrison with a slightly shaky recent form. They have registered two losses and a tie in their past three outings and hold a 2-3-2 record over their last seven matches, indicating some vulnerabilities the Red Bulls could exploit.

The Crew’s recent struggles can partly be attributed to defensive woes, exacerbated by key injuries. Defender Mo Farsi, sidelined with a pelvis injury, has missed the last six matches, while midfielder Darlington Nagbe has been absent for the past two due to a torso issue. Farsi’s potential return on Saturday could provide a much-needed boost for Columbus.

This match also marks the first time these two teams will face each other since the Red Bulls eliminated the Crew in the first round of the 2024 playoffs, adding another layer of intrigue and potential rivalry to the fixture. Both teams will undoubtedly remember that intense postseason battle.

Despite their strong position, Red Bulls coach Sandro Schwarz has emphasized the need for urgency following their recent 1-0 loss at Charlotte FC. He will be looking for a determined and focused performance from his squad to secure a victory and strengthen their bid to extend their illustrious playoff streak against the Columbus Crew.