U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand hosted current Major League Soccer (MLS) champions New York City FC (NYCFC), congratulating the club on their thrilling MLS Cup victory over the Portland Timbers in December 2021.
Senator Gillibrand congratulated NYCFC defender Anton Tinnerholm, NYCFC CEO Brad Sims, club Vice Presidents Sam Pugsley and Sam Cooke, and Communication Advisor Anthony Hayes, who were in town for their match against D.C. United and defeated 2-0 at Audi Field.
NYCFC defeated Atlanta United FC, Supporters’ Shield winner New England Revolution, and the Philadelphia Union in the MLS Eastern Conference playoffs before traveling to Providence Park in Portland, Oregon for the MLS Cup title game against the Timbers.
“The Pigeons,” as they are affectionately called by their fans, jumped ahead 1-0 in the 41st minute before the Portland Timbers tied the match late in the second half, forcing overtime. NYCFC would go on to win the club’s first ever championship, 4-2, in penalty kicks.
“NYCFC displayed true New York City grit on their road to winning Major League Soccer’s championship,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The club showed their Bronx toughness, not only upsetting the New England Revolution in the Eastern Conference playoffs, but traveling to Portland and staring down the Timbers’ rabid fanbase to bring the MLS Cup to Yankee Stadium. I wish them the best as they defend their championship this season, and I look forward to potentially hosting them again next year, as back-to-back champions.”