New York RB - New York City FC ai prediction 16.05.2026 Major League Soccer

Preview for match New York RB vs New York City FC

The upcoming Major League Soccer clash between New York Red Bulls (New York RB) and New York City FC is not just another match; it is a riveting encounter that embodies the fierce rivalry known as the Hudson River Derby. Scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 00:30, this match takes place at the Sports Illustrated Stadium, where both teams will seek to claim local bragging rights as well as vital points in the league standings.

As of now, both teams sit on 18 points, highlighting the competitive nature of this matchup. New York RB currently occupies the 14th position in the table, with a record of 5 wins, 3 draws, and 5 defeats, resulting in a goal differential of -8 (22 goals scored and 30 conceded). Their home record is moderately respectable, with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats. The team has shown resilience in their last five matches, securing two wins but facing three defeats.

On the other hand, New York City FC, under the guidance of coach Pascal Jansen, is slightly better positioned at 12th place. They too have 5 wins, 3 draws, and 5 defeats, but their goal differential is more favorable at +5 (23 goals scored and 18 conceded). Their away record stands at 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats. Recently, they have been in decent form, winning three of their last five matches, suggesting a revival in their performances.

Historically, New York City FC has dominated this rivalry, winning four of the last five encounters, including a convincing 3-1 victory in their most recent meeting. This trend adds an additional layer of pressure on New York RB as they strive to turn their fortunes around in this high-stakes match.

Our betting tip for the match New York RB vs New York City FC

In light of the current form and historical performances, our betting prediction leans towards a draw (Tip X). This match is poised to be fiercely contested, with both sides eager to assert their dominance. Given the close points tally and similar recent performances, a stalemate seems plausible. Additionally, we suggest betting on "Both teams to score" as both teams have shown the capacity to find the net in recent encounters.

Our tips

Handicap 1-0

Away win

New York RB have lost by 2 or more goals 3 of their last 5 matches.

New York City FC have won by 2 or more goals 2 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Bet9ja

Double Chance

12

New York RB have won or lost 5 of their last 5 matches.

New York City FC have won or lost 5 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Under 2.5

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 2 of New York RB's last 5 matches.

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 3 of New York City FC's last 5 matches.

Top odds at Bet9ja

AI prediction for the match New York RB vs New York City FC

Based on comprehensive data analysis and recent performances, the AI betting tip forecasts a draw as the most likely outcome, with a suggested final score of 2-2. Both teams have demonstrated an ability to score but also have defensive vulnerabilities, particularly New York RB, which has conceded 30 goals this season. The attacking prowess of both teams makes it reasonable to expect multiple goals during the match.

New York RB performance check

Under the stewardship of coach Michael Bradley, New York RB has had a mixed bag of performances this season. With their current standing at 14th position, the team has struggled to maintain consistency. Their last five matches have yielded two victories, but they have also faced three defeats, indicating a need for improvement in both defense and midfield cohesion. Despite the disappointing results, their recent home win against Columbus Crew (3-2) may serve as a morale booster ahead of this crucial derby.

How is the current performance of New York City FC

New York City FC, managed by Pascal Jansen, finds itself in a more favorable position, sitting 12th in the standings. Their recent form has been encouraging, with three wins in their last five outings. This resurgence includes a vital away victory against Charlotte FC (1-0), showcasing their defensive solidity. The team's ability to maintain discipline at the back while finding the net consistently bodes well for their chances in this derby.

Last direct match

In their most recent encounter, New York City FC triumphed over New York RB with a score of 3-1, further asserting their dominance in the Hudson River Derby. This result will undoubtedly be in the minds of both teams as they prepare to face each other again.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

In the last five meetings between these two teams, New York RB has managed to secure only one victory, while New York City FC has emerged victorious on four occasions. This head-to-head record highlights the ongoing challenge faced by New York RB in overcoming their rivals.

Performance last 5 matches

In the last five matches, New York RB has recorded two wins and three defeats, indicating a struggle for consistency. Conversely, New York City FC has performed better with three wins and two defeats, showcasing a more favorable trajectory.

Performance

New York RB

Last games

New York RB performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

40%

Over 2.5

80%

New York City FC

Last games

New York City FC performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

60%

Over 2.5

40%

Last match results New York RB and New York City FC

New York RB's last match resulted in a hard-fought home victory against Columbus Crew, finishing 3-2. New York City FC secured a narrow but critical away win against Charlotte FC with a score of 1-0, demonstrating their defensive strength.

Best odds and our betting tip

The best odds for this match show New York RB at 2.62 with Betwinner, a draw at 3.75 with Betano, and New York City FC at 2.65 with Mozzart. Based on our experience with various betting sites, we recommend exploring the best betting sites for competitive odds.

Conclusion on the match

In conclusion, the upcoming match between New York RB and New York City FC is set to be an enthralling encounter. While both teams are on equal points, New York City FC's recent form and historical success in this rivalry may give them the edge. However, the unpredictability of a derby match cannot be underestimated. Our predictions suggest a draw, with both teams likely to score, making for an exciting evening of soccer.

Here are tomorrow's betting tips for football enthusiasts looking to capitalize on the action in the MLS and beyond.