What We Learned from Last Pre-Season Match

This past Saturday (3/8/2026), the Cosmos faced NY Renegades FC for their final pre-season match before opening the USL League One season against Portland Hearst of Pine on March 14th. The recently crowned National Champions of the UPSL Premier provided a formidable opponent for the Cosmos, at least in the first half.

The Cosmos lined up, with what can be seen as the potential starting lineup for next weeks league debut. Tristan Stephani once again started in goal, the Fordham product has done well in pre-season and has been battling with Derrek Chan for the #1 spot. Davide Galazzini started at right back, while Tino Puentes started at left back in place of the injured Davey Mason. Mason is expected to be back in action relatively soon. The center back pairing was formed by Jordan Chavez (former Texoma FC player who is rumored to be signing with the club) and Anderson Holt. The three in the midfield were Darren Sidoel and Nick Mendonca with Ajmeer Spengler playing as the attacking midfielder. Up front, the Cosmos lined up with Nick Zielonka at right wing, Seba Guenzatti at center forward and Christian Koffie at Left Wing.

In the first half the Cosmos struggled to generate clear chances and were caught on the counter by NY Renegades on a few occasions. The Renegades managed to score two goals in the first half. One one of the goals they took advantage of a long ball over the top to score the second of the match. The Cosmos midfield was unable to generate quality chances. Christian Koffi showed his attacking prowess as he was able to make some promising runs but more was needed for the USL League One side.

The coaching staff was clearly frustrated at the half, but only made two changes to the side at halftime. Massimo Morabito replaced Galazzini at right back, while Chan took over in net. The team looked completely different in the second half, with Renegades unable to sustain any significant time on the ball. After a few close calls, Cosmos got on the board 10 minutes into the second half. Zielonka found Guenzatti in the box, and the Uruguayan was able to slot the ball into the back of the net. A few minutes later, Ajmeer Spengler beat his defender in the middle of the pitch, and was able to get into the box and slot the ball into the back of the net after getting by the keeper. At 2-2 it was clear the Cosmos wanted to make a statement and end the pre-season on a positive note. The Cosmos made changes to the lineup soon after, with Leo Guarino, Patrick Bohui and Julian Lacher being added to the attack, and Puentes moving from left back to d-mid being joined by Nestor Cabrera, and Braeden Backus occupying the left back spot. The changes didn’t affect the teams play as the Cosmos continued to generate chances. Leo Guarino scored off a rebound to make it 3-2 for Cosmos. Patrick Bohui continued to look lively in attack and scored a terrific goal after maneuvering in the box. He celebrated with his traditional back-flip as the Cosmos wrapped up an impressive second half.

1. Cosmos to add a Center Back.

The team should announce the signing of a new center back to start the season. Over the last two weeks the club has focused on signing an experienced center back to pair with Anderson Holt. The Cosmos are implementing an attacking style of play and need to ensure that they can play out of the back and are able to thwart counterattacks.

2. Puentes will be a key player.

Tino Puentes, the Drew University product, has played most of his career as a central midfielder, however he has been playing as a left back in the place of Davey Mason. Puentes showed grit defensively and was able to add numbers to the attack. In the second half he played his traditional role at d-mid and was able to help start the attack for Cosmos. His versatility will be key to the team this season.

3. Cosmos have Attacking Depth.

Sebastian Guenzatti, who has been one of the top strikers in USL for a decade is expected to provide goals for the Cosmos, and if his pre-season form is an indication he should be expected to score at least 10 goals. Nick Zielonka has impressed this pre-season playing as a striker or right-winger, and should be an important player this season. Christian Koffi is probably the most exciting attacker on the team and should be one of the better players in the league. Patrick Bohui has always been a top prospect since his days with Philadelphia Union, and with consistent minutes should be able to produce. Leo Guarino showed promise with NYC FC II and can add a spark off the bench. Julien Lacher was involved in 13 goal contributions for NYC FC II in 2024, and is seen as one of the top young prospects in USL League One.