Jansen Eyes Strong Start vs. Nashville: “Scoring First Changes Everything”

As New York City FC prepare to face Nashville SC on the road, head coach Pascal Jansen is making one thing clear: starting strong and striking first could be the key to unlocking victory.

Looking ahead to the clash at GEODIS Park, Jansen emphasized how scoring the opening goal can completely change the flow and psychology of a match — especially in a tightly contested Major League Soccer season.

“Scoring the first goal is always part of our conversation with the players,” Jansen said. “It has a huge impact on the dynamics of the game. When Houston scored, they sat back and made it difficult. That’s the reality of this league—you have to fight harder to come back when you go behind.”

The Importance of Momentum

Jansen’s comments come just days after NYCFC’s 1-0 defeat to Houston Dynamo, a match where conceding first allowed the hosts to shift into a defensive shell, frustrating New York’s efforts to break through.

In a league where margins are often razor-thin, taking early control of a game through aggressive pressing and clinical finishing can mean the difference between three points and none.

A Chance to Set the Tone

Against Nashville SC, the Boys in Blue will aim to regain confidence and rhythm by asserting themselves early, both in possession and in front of goal. With playoff positioning on the line, every match carries extra weight—and Jansen knows it.