Predicting NYCFC’s US Open Cup squad

Throughout the first three seasons of their existence, New York City FC’s performance in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup has been marred by poor play and underachievement. In 2015, NYCFC matched up against the local rival and then-NASL crown jewels New York Cosmos. Things looked placid at first, with the Blues going up 2-0 by way of two goals from upcoming star Kwadwo Poku. Things quickly unraveled in the second half, however, as the Cosmos surged late to equalize the game, eventually winning by way of penalties.

The following year — 2016 — was the same result, albeit more maddening. Again drawing the Cosmos in their first round of eligible competition, NYCFC would lose 1-0 in regulation,…