The Cosmos eliminated New York City
In a thrilling match in the fourth round of the US Open Cup, the Cosmos eliminated New York City. For City, Ghanaian Kwadwo Poku was the standout, scoring a brace to put them ahead 0-2. But the Cosmos didn't give up, with Raúl playing a pivotal role both in defense and attack. With goals from Leo Fernandes and Lucky Mkosana, the latter in the 90th minute, the Cosmos forced extra time and won a match that always wanted more.
The hosts kicked off the East River Derby with a lot of enthusiasm (derby held east of the river, as both teams are located east of the Hudson) and fielded Raúl and their best available team... although greatly weakened by the absences of Marcos Senna and veteran center-back Roversio. The Shuart Stadium was packed with 11,456 screaming fans. More than a thousand of them in the visitors section supporting City... It was the first time both teams faced each other, but the atmosphere was that of a derby.
In the end, New York City FC fell in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer making three saves. But the undisputed loser of the night was Jason Kreis. The coach not only deprived the football world of seeing a Raúl-Villa showdown six years later, but also ended up paying for benching the Spaniard with his team's elimination.
In the pre-match, Kreis assured that he would "go all out" against the Cosmos and he did with nine regular players in his lineup... but leaving out Guaje was a luxury he shouldn't have allowed. Especially considering that his team missed a penalty in extra time that could have sealed the victory in their favor (Pablo Álvarez hit the crossbar).
After the elimination of the Silverbacks against the Red Bulls, the Cosmos will be the only NASL survivor in the round of 16 of the US Open Cup. And Raúl's hope of playing in his third variety of the Champions League remains alive. The winner of this cup earns a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League (the former Real Madrid and Schalke player also played in the AFC Champions League with Al Sadd).