NY Empire FC Eyes Playoff Push Ahead of Massive Wednesday Night Clash

NY Empire FC returns home tonight for one of the biggest matches of the Spring 2026 UPSL season, hosting AFC Academy at 9:30 PM under the lights at SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex. A win would move Empire back into playoff position as the postseason race begins to tighten in the Northeast Premier Division.

After a difficult stretch that saw consecutive losses to NY Renegades FC and NY Braveheart SC, Empire responded exactly how they needed to over the weekend with a massive 3–1 victory over NYC Haiti United FC. The result not only stopped the slide, but injected new life and confidence into the squad heading into the final stretch of the campaign.

Currently sitting at 2 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses, Empire knows every point matters from here on out. Wednesday night presents a major opportunity against an AFC side that will also be battling for position in a highly competitive table.

One of the biggest storylines from the win over Haiti NYC was the impact of new signing Johanny Moreno, who announced himself in dominant fashion with two goals in his debut appearance. Moreno brought immediate energy and attacking quality to the front line, giving Empire another dangerous weapon moving forward.

Empire has also strengthened defensively in recent weeks with the addition of experienced defender Matt Sloan, whose leadership and composure have added stability to the back line during a critical point in the season.

Another major boost came with the return of goalkeeper Justin Silva, who re-signed with the club after previously starring for NY Empire two seasons ago. Silva remains one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in club history, having recorded the most shutouts in NY Empire FC UPSL history during his previous stint with the club.

The midfield also received a major addition with the signing of Gabriel Fernandes, bringing another experienced presence into the squad during the playoff push. Fernandes adds composure, leadership, and quality on the ball in the center of the pitch. His arrival also reunites him with his twin brother, Gustavo Fernandes, who recently returned from injury and has continued working his way back into full form after missing time earlier in the season.

Head Coach Max Ferro believes the group is beginning to find its identity again at the perfect time.

“We know exactly what’s in front of us right now,” said Ferro. “The response after those losses showed a lot about the character of this group. The energy has been different this week. The players understand what’s at stake, and we’re ready for the challenge. Three points tonight changes everything.”

Empire will once again look to its home supporters to create the atmosphere that has made SUSA one of the toughest places to play in the region. With playoff positioning on the line, Wednesday night promises to be another massive night for the club.

Kickoff is set for 9:30 PM at SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex. All fans are encouraged to come out and support the push toward the playoffs.