Since winning the MLS Cup back in 2013, Sporting Kansas City have struggled to get past the first hurdle of the playoff for the past four seasons.
Last season was no different as they were dumped out by Houston Dynamo in extra time after a fifth-place finish in the Western Conference.
There have been some changes to their roster ahead of the new season, but more importantly, they have avoided making changes to the areas that helped them so much last season – defence.
Kansas City conceded the least goal in the entire MLS last season (conceding 29 goals in 34 games), and retaining all those defenders has to be the best business of the offseason.
They did struggle in the attack last season as they ended as one of the least scoring sides in the league, but they have made some interesting attacking signings in Yohan Croizet and Felipe Gutierrez and their fans would hope their goal record improves.
New York City lost a great player in Jack Harrison in the offseason and although they have brought in Jesus Medina to replace him, he would be missed greatly this season.
David Villa remains their key attacker, and he would be hoping to get his hands on the MLS Cup this season. Last season was a good one for them, but the Toronto that eventually won the title was too much for them to handle.
Kansas conceded just 11 goals at home last season and their defensive solidity could prove key in this game also.
