Precocious Red Bulls prepared for struggling CF Montreal

New York's teenage trio leads the way as Montreal searches for first points

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The New York Red Bulls, led by a trio of teenagers, are off to a strong start in the 2026 MLS season, while CF Montreal has struggled out of the gate. The Red Bulls will host Montreal on Sunday, with the young players like Julian Hall, Adri Mehmeti, and Matthew Dos Santos looking to continue their impressive early-season form.

Why it matters

The Red Bulls' early success with their young players is a promising sign for the club's future, while Montreal's struggles raise questions about the team's direction and ability to compete in the Eastern Conference.

The details

In wins over Orlando and New England, the Red Bulls have relied heavily on the teenage trio of Julian Hall, Adri Mehmeti, and Matthew Dos Santos. The three combined for the lone goal in the team's 1-0 victory over the Revolution, with the 17-year-old Hall heading in an assist from the 16-year-old Mehmeti after an initial cross from the 17-year-old Dos Santos. This was the first goal in MLS history that featured contributions from three players under the age of 18. Meanwhile, Montreal has been shut out for two consecutive weeks, including a 3-0 loss to Chicago despite the Fire going down a man in the 54th minute.

  • The Red Bulls debuted new coach Michael Bradley in the first two weeks of the 2026 MLS season.
  • The Red Bulls defeated Orlando and New England in their first two matches.
  • The Red Bulls will host Montreal on Sunday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Michael Bradley

The new head coach of the New York Red Bulls.

Julian Hall

A 17-year-old player for the New York Red Bulls who has scored three goals in the team's first two games.

Adri Mehmeti

A 16-year-old player for the New York Red Bulls who assisted on the team's game-winning goal against New England.

Matthew Dos Santos

A 17-year-old player for the New York Red Bulls who crossed the ball that led to the game-winning goal against New England.

Marco Donadel

The head coach of CF Montreal, who is searching for the team's first points of the season.

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What they’re saying

“It's an honor, but I think I expect a lot more for myself, and hopefully there's some more good things to come this season.”

— Julian Hall, New York Red Bulls player (Yardbarker)

“We understand that with any young player, with any player in general, not every weekend is going to be perfect; not every game is going to be their best. But we're going to continue to find the right ways to help these guys and make sure they continue to take the next step.”

— Michael Bradley, New York Red Bulls head coach (Yardbarker)

“It's difficult, and I think I didn't put, after the red card, the players in the best position to perform. They did everything. They pushed, and they are very disappointed, and the only thing we need to do now is work.”

— Marco Donadel, CF Montreal head coach (Yardbarker)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.