On Sunday, March 1, 2026, Red Bull New York II will welcome Columbus Crew 2 for the MLS NEXT Pro season opener at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, with kickoff scheduled for 5 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the game live online for free via MLSNEXTPro.com and OneFootball, marking an important start for both teams.
Red Bull NY II Aiming for Consecutive MLS NEXT Pro Titles
Red Bull NY II enters the new campaign after a strong 2025 season, finishing first in the Eastern Conference and achieving the second-highest single-season goal total in MLS NEXT Pro history. Their playoff performance was equally impressive, scoring the most goals ever in a top-flight MLS NEXT Pro postseason and ultimately capturing the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Cup. The team is determined to become the first in league history to secure back-to-back titles.
Leadership Changes and New Players for Red Bull NY II
Dominik Wohlert steps into his first professional head coaching role with Red Bull NY II, bringing experience from four seasons as an assistant coach with Red Bull’s first team, including their 2024 Eastern Conference title and multiple playoff runs. Wohlert plans to guide the team with fresh energy and a clear structure.
Eight new additions have joined the roster, including midfielders Paul Sokoloff, Sekou Kone, and Makan Sissoko; defenders Aimar Sanchez, Shunya Sakai, Alexander Julio, and Erick Londono; and goalkeeper Tomas Hutwho, each expected to contribute significantly.
Recently, the squad completed a week-long preseason camp in Panama City, Panama, where they played two friendlies—falling narrowly 4-3 to Tauro FC but rallying for a 2-1 comeback win against C.D. Plaza Amador.
Columbus Crew 2 Enters the Season Seeking Improvement
In contrast, Columbus Crew 2 concluded the previous season at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with just 22 points, setting a challenging foundation for the year ahead. Their upcoming match against Red Bull NY II offers an opportunity to start on a more positive note.
Series History and Recent Encounters Between Teams
Red Bull NY II currently leads the head-to-head series, holding a 5-2-1 record over Columbus Crew 2 and winning the last three meetings by outscoring them 10-5. The most recent clash was a high-scoring affair, with New York prevailing 7-4 thanks to a hat trick from midfielder Nehuen Benedetti, two goals from Mitchell, and one goal each by Rafael Mosquera and Jimenez.
This matchup marks only the second time these teams will face off in a season opener; their previous season opener meeting in March 2023 ended in a 1-1 draw.
Upcoming Fixtures and Broadcast Information
Following this opening game, Red Bull NY II will return home to face Inter Miami CF II on Saturday, March 8, at MSU Soccer Park, with kickoff also scheduled for 5 p.m. ET. Coverage of that match will once again be available on MLSNEXTPro.com and OneFootball, continuing the accessible broadcast schedule for fans.
