NYCFC’s Fate Rests on Alonso Martínez and Hannes Wolf — Can the Stars End Their Scoring Drought in the Playoffs?

For New York City FC, leadership doesn’t just come from the coach’s tactics — it’s defined by the players who make the difference in the final third. And few have done that better this season than Alonso Martínez and Hannes Wolf.

Together, the duo accounted for 28 of NYCFC’s 56 regular-season goals, forming one of the most dangerous attacking partnerships in MLS. As the club begins its MLS Cup Playoff run against Charlotte FC in a best-of-three first-round series, all eyes are once again on them.

But as the playoffs begin, their form is dipping at the worst possible time.

A Late-Season Scoring Slump Raises Questions

NYCFC closed the regular season scoring just four goals over their final four matches, with three of those coming in a single win over the New York Red Bulls on September 27.

Martínez — who leads the team with 17 goals — hasn’t scored in his last three appearances, while Wolf’s last goal dates back to September 17 against Columbus.

That sudden dry spell has left fans anxious about whether City’s key attackers can rediscover their rhythm when it matters most.

Martínez: “The Goals Will Come”

Despite the numbers, Martínez remains calm and confident. When asked about his recent drought, the Costa Rican international downplayed the concern.

“It’s just been the last few games that I haven’t been able to score,” Martínez said through an interpreter. “I think it’s been the schedule, the fact that I’ve been away with [Costa Rica’s] national team. But before that, I went on a streak of scoring in five matches. Not too worried about that — the goals will come.”

That mentality could prove crucial for NYCFC, who will need their top scorer’s composure and finishing if they hope to make a deep playoff run.

Pressure Mounts as Playoffs Begin

As NYCFC prepares for its showdown with Charlotte FC, the formula for success remains simple: when Martínez and Wolf are firing, City wins.

If the duo can rediscover their scoring touch, NYCFC could once again emerge as a dark horse in the MLS Cup chase. But if the drought continues, their postseason may end sooner than expected.