MLS Preview: New York Red Bulls Host Charlotte FC in Eastern Conference Showdown

The New York Red Bulls return to Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday evening as they host Charlotte FC in a matchup that sees two Eastern Conference rivals level on 22 points.

With both sides sitting at 6-6-4, there's little to separate the teams on paper, making Saturday's meeting an important opportunity to gain ground in the playoff race.

The Red Bulls have enjoyed this fixture on home soil, going unbeaten in four regular season meetings against Charlotte at Sports Illustrated Stadium (3-0-1). Across all competitions, New York boasts an even more impressive 5-0-1 record against Saturday's visitors.

One player to watch is Julian Hall, who has found his scoring touch at home. The young forward has netted three goals in his last two appearances at Sports Illustrated Stadium and also scored against Charlotte earlier in his career. The last meeting between the sides in Harrison saw the Red Bulls run out 4-2 winners in May 2025.

Captain Emil Forsberg continues to be the creative spark for Sandro Schwarz's side. The Swedish midfielder registered his sixth MLS assist of the season in Wednesday's match against the Philadelphia Union, leaving him tied for seventh in the Eastern Conference. Forsberg has also enjoyed success against Charlotte, scoring twice in a 3-1 home victory in 2024, and has now recorded an assist in three of his last four MLS appearances.

With both clubs level on points entering the weekend, Saturday's clash could prove significant as the race for the Eastern Conference playoff places begins to intensify.

The match will also see the club celebrate REDD's Birthday, with festivities taking place throughout the evening at Sports Illustrated Stadium.

Kick-off: 6:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Sports Illustrated Stadium, Harrison, New Jersey