Red Bulls Secure 14th Consecutive Playoff Spot with Late Penalty Kick Win Over Nashville SC

John Tolkin's penalty kick in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time clinches victory for Red Bulls, breaking the tie with Seattle Sounders for the longest playoff streak in MLS history.

John Tolkin scored a decisive penalty kick during second-half stoppage time to secure a 1-0 win for the Red Bulls against Nashville SC, clinching their 14th consecutive playoff spot.
The playoff streak, starting from 2010, sets a new record for the longest in the MLS, surpassing the previous record held by the Seattle Sounders from 2009 to 2021.
Despite facing a total of 235 shots this season, the Red Bulls were able to maintain their streak thanks to outstanding performances from goalie Carlos Coronel, who made four crucial saves in this match, adding to his ninth overall clean sheet of the season.
The Red Bulls, who finished the regular season eighth with a 11-13-10 record and 43 points, will host ninth-place Charlotte FC in the Eastern Conference wild-card match on Wednesday night.
Nashville SC, despite 49 points and a 13-11-10 record, lost the match and will face second-place Orlando City in the opening round of the MLS Cup playoffs.