Dante Vanzeir shines as Red Bulls aim for MLS Cup

In the United States, New York Red Bulls striker Dante Vanzeir underwent a challenging phase in 2024, marked by a notable four-month goal drought during the MLS regular season. This period of struggle included a span from May 11 to September 14, during which he failed to score any goals in 18 games. However, as the playoffs commenced, Vanzeir began to exhibit a resurgence in form that many had deemed improbable given his earlier performances. He quickly became an impactful player in the postseason, netting two goals in his last two matches. Vanzeir's contributions were significant in the Red Bulls' recent victories, particularly with an assist in their decisive conference semifinal win against New York City FC at Citi Field. Vanzeir attributed his revitalized form to several factors, including the return of teammate Emil Forsberg from injury and changes within the team's structure. His teammate Lewis Morgan observed that while Vanzeir's overall gameplay remained consistent, the critical change was that he was finally converting those chances into goals. Reflecting on his tumultuous journey, Vanzeir commented on the emotional ups and downs of professional sports, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and confidence in overcoming challenges. The Red Bulls faced a tough regular season, securing only three wins in their final 18 matches, leading many to doubt their potential. However, entering the playoffs as underdogs against the defending MLS Cup champions, the Columbus Crew, the team surprised critics by winning their first match 2-0. This victory boosted the team’s confidence and provided the foundation for their ongoing success in the playoffs. Following this, they achieved another impressive win against New York City FC, propelling them within striking distance of their first MLS Cup appearance since 2008. As the team prepares for an important match against Orlando City SC, they are driven by their newfound momentum. Morgan expressed that winning fosters confidence, which has been key to their surprising playoff run. Overall, the beginning of the playoffs has marked a stark contrast to their regular-season performance, highlighting Vanzeir's resurgence and the team's ability to come together under pressure. This renewed energy and cohesion have generated significant optimism among the players and fans as they strive for championship glory.