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ESPN staff 6y

NYCFC could move another match from Yankee Stadium to Citi Field

New York City FC could play more than one match at Citi Field as the New York Yankees continue their playoff run.

"It's probably a little early for me to say definitively, but it's safe to say that Citi Field is certainly an option and it's something we're considering," NYCFC president Jon Patricof said. "We'll continue to explore other alternatives."

NYCFC will play their Decision Day finale on Sunday at the home of the New York Mets, in Queens. They were forced to move the game from their regular home, Yankee Stadium, after the Yankees beat the Cleveland Indians in the American League Divisional Series, extending their postseason life.

The Yankees are now just one win away from the World Series. Should they book their place, the first two games would be played on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week in New York.

NYCFC, who play Columbus Crew SC on Sunday, can clinch the second seed in the Eastern Conference with a win. However, a draw could see them play a knockout round playoff match, while a loss would ensure they'd play a knockout match that could potentially be at home.

MLS knockout round games will be played on Wednesday, Oct. 25 and Thursday, Oct. 26.

"We're trying to be as open as possible about the process, but at the same time everyone recognizes we're juggling a lot of different factors," Patricof said. "The response about Citi Field has generally been pretty positive."

The Yankees, who spent the past few years retooling their roster, look set to be a consistent presence in the playoffs in the coming years.

Patricof conceded that more scheduling issues could be in the offing.

"Going forward we're going to absolutely have even more investment of time in contingency planning," Patricof said. "The Yankees are obviously building an incredible team. ... This is something we've thought about before and it's now become a reality.

"We're going to have to continue to put a lot of effort and time into planning out alternate venues when Yankee Stadium is not available."

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