New York City FC Head Coach Pascal Jansen believes his side must “create calmness within the chaos” when they take on the Philadelphia Union this weekend.
Jansen’s team travels to Subaru Park for an Eastern Conference Semifinal showdown against the Union. The two sides earned identical 1-0 home victories when they met during the regular season and will now reunite once more on Sunday, this time in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.
“They've been very successful this season," Jansen said of the Union. "They've won the Supporters’ Shield so their confidence levels will be very high. We're one of the few teams that have beaten them during the regular season; that was the game in New York.
“It was a very close game in Philadelphia [in October]. Typically, I would say they’re very comfortable in chaotic situations.
“So for us, it's very important—like we did in game number two in Philadelphia—that we dominate the ball, making sure that we create calmness within the chaos. That is what I've spoken about with my guys.
“That will be key for us to ensure we control a good rhythm of play and keep the margins very small. The game in Philadelphia, and the game in New York for that matter, were decided by small details. That tells us there are two competitive teams with similarities in several areas. But, like I said, the margins are very small.”
Sunday’s game arrives following a two-week international break, with both sides looking to regain momentum on the field. Reflecting on that situation, Jansen did not see it as a cause for concern.
“We've dealt with it so far, because you have no choice, it's just the schedule,” Jansen said. “We did have an open conversation about it among ourselves as staff, but also with the team.
“When we were in the best-of-three series against Charlotte, there was a lot of adrenaline and a lot going on, especially when you're on the right end of the result. It's always unfortunate when everything stops instantly and you have to wait another two weeks before building that tension again.
“I think we found our way in the last two weeks to stay fresh and build up the tension toward this important game. We have one more session to go, tomorrow, before we leave, and then we're ready to go again.”
As the team prepares for the semifinal, Jansen was also asked about the guiding principles that have shaped his first season in New York.
“That's quite a bit to get into, to be honest, but I’m going to tell you this: my approach is based on ‘lead by example,’” he explained.
“From day one, it’s not just me, but I’ve made it very clear where my standards lie and how I see things. I created a very clear picture of what it looks like, what I'm looking for, and then everybody is given a chance.
“I gave everyone time to let that sink in and then determine for themselves how they're going to behave within that spectrum—with me and the rest of the staff—making sure we follow up on things.”
With New York City FC fans also likely to make the journey to Philadelphia on Sunday, Jansen expressed his appreciation for their devotion before hoping they return to New York happy with the result.
“First of all, to the fans, we all appreciate it very much that you're going to travel to see us play in Philadelphia,” he said.
“The one thing I’d like to say is, I hope that after 90–95 minutes or so, you're happy to see us play, that we’ve achieved the result we’re looking for, and that you’re happy to make the long trip back home again.”
