New York City FC picked up a big 5-2 win over Westchester SC in the Round of 32 of the US Open Cup, and this episode kicks off with an instant reaction to that lopsided win over a local lower-league rival.

Talles Magno scored a hat trick of goals, and Agustín Ojeda had three goal contributions: Is this simply high-priced talent doing what it should against a USL League One club, or can we read more into the big performances from Talles and Ojeda?

The attack clicked in the Open Cup, but no attacking player in New York City colors had a performance to remember in the 2-0 road loss to Vancouver Whitecaps FC that preceded the midweek cup contest. Hosts John Baney and Mark Radigan and producer Andrew Leigh lament the costly absence of New York City center-back Thiago Martins, marvel at Matt Freese and his eight saves, and wonder where this loss, coupled with the recent loss to reigning MLS Cup champions Inter Miami CF, leaves New York City FC in relation to the elite teams in Major League Soccer.

The New York City squad is getting stronger as players return from injury, and that now includes winger Malachi Jones, who completed an inspiring comeback from the severe broken leg he suffered in June 2024. Jones is getting back up to speed, as is midfielder Andrés Perea, who officially is back in full training after the broken leg he suffered last November. We highlight how each player's return to health can help Pascal Jansen put his squad together.

Then it's time to preview Charlotte FC coming to visit New York City FC at Citi Field in Queens. Danger man Pep Biel is back healthy and available for Charlotte after missing last year's MLS Cup Playoffs series with NYCFC. Biel, Idan Toklomati, and Wilfried Zaha make for a threatening front line, and we get into what New York City will need to do against them to snap their mini three-match MLS winless streak.

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