3 things we learned from NYCFC's Decision Day win over D.C. United

The 2026 Major League Soccer season is officially over. After getting eliminated from postseason contention last weekend, New York City FC played their final match on Decision Day. The team entered the day with single-digit wins and wanted to end the year on a positive note and secure their tenth win of the season. Thankfully, they did that.

The Pigeons beat D.C. United 1-0 on the road, ending the 2026 season with a 10-12-12 record. As such, NYCFC ensured they did not tie their worst season win-wise with nine, which occurred in 2023. It still matched their second-worst season in 2015, though. Then, the Pigeons ended the year with 42 points, which is higher than the 2015 and 2023 campaigns of 37 and 41, respectively.

In addition, winning the final game is somewhat positive, despite the rough season. Talles Magno’s effort throughout the match highlighted what he brings to the team, and he truly deserved to finally find the back of the net in the 87th minute. The run from Bénie Traoré, and then the newer forward’s decision to pass to Magno, made the difference. The Brazilian put the shot on target and provided some joy to end the 2026 season.

There is plenty to discuss about the season, but that will happen throughout the offseason. In the meantime, what did we learn from NYCFC’s win over D.C. United?

D.C. had a short-handed squad, even more so than the Pigeons. NYCFC was offensively stronger in the first half, but failed to score. But when the home side came out for the second half, the players were hungry and truly attacked the Bronx side. Of course, the visitors eventually got back into the attacking groove later on in the second half. But without Matt Freese, things might be different.

The NYCFC goalkeeper made five saves, including three between the 60th and 65th minutes. Yes, the shots were right at him, as were others. However, some of the shots were fierce, and Freese even struggled to hold onto the ball at times. It was not just his saves, though.

His punches, especially during the corner kicks, equally ensured that D.C. did not have a chance to get the ball on target. Moreover, he was smart when he came off his line and did not make any mistakes that would have fans saying, "Same old NYCFC." Freese was there where he needed to be. As such, he earned the clean sheet.

For some unknown reason, Pascal Jansen, like Nick Cushing, decided that he would mostly play Magno as a striker, which he did throughout 2026. The forward was a little better under Jansen, but it was clear that he was at his best when he was coming in from the left side of the pitch.

It was a delightful surprise when the head coach started the Brazilian as the left winger against D.C. United, and he did not disappoint. Magno played one of his best matches for NYCFC this season, constantly threatening the goal. He also played a vital part in getting the ball up the pitch.

He had five shots in the game, with four on target. Of course, one of those shots resulted in the game-winning goal. The match highlighted that Magno is at his best on the wings, and maybe NYCFC will finally understand this.

Without question, there will be departures in the offseason. Some change is needed, but it is probable that the Pigeons will have more players leave than necessary. Remember, most of the squad was here in 2025, when the team was successful under Jansen. But after a bad year, multiple departures are common in MLS.

So, who played their final game for NYCFC? Fans are aware that Thiago Martins and Keaton Parks are likely leaving based on their comments last week. And, based on how Parks hugged his teammates and the coaching staff, it does truly seem that the long-time player is saying goodbye.

NYCFC will likely reveal their roster options soon, and over the next few months, it would not be shocking to see more players leave via trades and transfers.