A crowd of 43,507 packed into the famous arena to witness skipper David Villa and substitute Patrick Mullins score in a 2-0 victory over New England Revolution.
It was the perfect welcome for the Big Apple fans to a brand new footballing adventure, billed the Historic Home Opener.
The great and the good soaked up a crackling atmosphere, with mayor Bill de Blasio in attendance and Grammy winning New Yorker Ashanti singing the national anthem pre-game.
The action in the Bronx started before kick-off in the big game, with a community event at Macombs Dam Park, the site of the old Yankee Stadium.
After that fans were queuing for over an hour to watch New York’s newest sports team… and they did not disappoint.
New England brought a decent following, contributing to what could well be the birth of a new rivalry. Some are suggesting this fixture could be football’s answer to the Red Sox v Yankees in baseball.
When the action started, skipper Villa lead from the front to put his side ahead early on.
New England’s task became steeper when Jose Goncalves was sent off after a challenge on Khiry Shelton.
NYCFC sealed victory when Villa turned provider for substitute Patrick Mullins to score with his first touch to send the fans into raptures.
That makes it a draw and a victory from NYCFC’s first two MLS matches. History has already been made and the future promises much.
Well, that will go down in my memory banks as an all-time great. Thank you so much NYC fans. I hope we did you proud. Onwards and Upwards!
— Jason Kreis (@JasonKreis) March 16, 2015Proud to make my debut infront of 43 thousand today a dream come true!!! U Fans are amazing thanks guys for your messages too 👌🙌 #NYCFC !!
— Shay Facey (@ShayFacey) March 16, 2015What a night at @NYCFC!!! Thank you to all the fans. Great atmosphere
— Claudio Reyna (@CReynaNYCFC) March 16, 2015
