Almost 30 years after disbanding, the New York Cosmos are set to play their "inaugural" game tonight at Hofstra University (Roll Pride) against their once heated rival Fort Lauderdale Strikers.
Just like during the club's first stint, they're beginning life right on Hempstead Turnpike. This time, it is in the 13,500 capacity James M. Shuart Stadium that has been a somewhat hollow reminder that football used to be played at Hofstra (grumble grumble).
The Cosmos, competing in the second division North American Soccer League (NASL), still managed to bring in some solid European talent.
Marcos Senna
He might not be what he used to be, but the 37 year old Brazilian midfielder enjoyed a successful career at Villarreal where he reached the Champions League semifinal in 2006. Playing for the Spanish national team, he helped the side win Euro 2008 and he was selected to the All-Tournament team.
Ayoze
Playing for Spanish La Liga side Sporting Gijon, Ayoze scored 19 goals in 162 appearances from the midfield since 2010. The 27 year old brings big time experience along with Senna to a side that doesn't have much premier exposure.
Alessandro Noselli
Graduating from the Udinese Youth Academy in Italy, Noselli played for Mantova and Sassuolo in Serie B. The 32 year old has scored 56 goals in the past eight years at striker.
The Cosmos also bring in five players with MLS experience with Hunter Freeman and Joseph Nane from the Colorado Rapids, local product Carlos Mendes (born in Mineola, NY) and Korey Veeder from the Columbus Crew, and Kyle Reynish from Real Salt Lake.
There are fans with hopes that one day the Cosmos can make the leap to the MLS. With the right venue it's absolutely possible, but the announcement of New York Yankee and Manchester City New York City FC's expansion, it might not be as easy as a few good years in the NASL. But we'll see. I'll be at Hofstra tonight wearing green. Hope to see you all there.
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