Three NYCFC players make MLS Team of the Week

New York City FC absolutely some props for their big 3-1 win over Toronto FC last weekend. Coming into the MLS is Back Round of 16 matchup, NYCFC were massive underdogs against the Reds — a team that’s been a constant thorn in their side since at least 2016 — having advanced to the knockouts by the skin of their teeth.

But as fate would have it, the Boys in Blue would rise to the occasion and put in a dominant performance that was worthy of praise at many levels. And for their efforts, three City players were placed into MLS’s Team of the Week.

Taty Castellanos, Maxi Moralez, and Alexander Callens were all given spots on MLS’s TotW for the individual performances in the Round of 16.

Castellanos — who started over standard striker option Héber — netted his first goal of the tournament in the 55th minute to increase City’s lead to 2-0 on an outstanding assist from Moralez in what would prove to be the game winner. Maxi would get a goal of his own later in the 81st minute on an exquisite dummy/backheel from Héber that gave NYCFC a 3-0 lead and some much needed breathing room as the game became more open towards the end.

Finally, Callens was given props for his great defensive effort at the back. Though he didn’t need to do much in the air or even on the ground, the Peruvian was a consistent distributor from the back logging a total of 53 touches and a passing percentage of 89%, in additions to winning an aerial duel, registering a tackle, and grabbing two interceptions.

Congrats on a job well done, boys. Now give the Portland Timbers hell on Sunday!