The Red Bulls took care of new rivals Philadelphia Union yesterday, and with the win are now off to their best 5 game start in franchise history at 4-1-0, 12 points. They are 5 points clear at the top of the Eastern Conference, where Kansas City (4 games played), Columbus (3 games played), and Chicago (5 games played) all have 7 points. If MLS were single table as it should be, New York would be trailing only the Los Angeles Galaxy by a single point. 

It's an encouraging start to the season, but it hasn't been perfect. The team has had trouble finishing its chances, and yesterday in particular, the team had some defensive lapses that cost them, and could have easily cost them the game. Head Coach Hans Backe said he is till not satisfied, and that he soon "may have a nervous breakdown." Here is a wrap-up of Backe's post game press conference:

Red Bulls vs Philadelphia Union - Hans Backe Post-Game Press Conference, April 24, 2025 (via OnceAMetro)

We also talked with the two players who combined for the Red Bulls' first goal, defender Jeremy Hall and forward Salou Ibrahim, who scored his first ever goal for the club:

Red Bulls vs Philadelphia Union - Jeremy Hall, Salou Ibrahim Post-Game Reaction (via OnceAMetro)

We'll be back soon with more analysis of this match, and a look ahead at Tuesday's Open Cup match against these same Philadelphia Union.