Your Monday Kickoff: Red Bulls deliver an MLS upset for the ages

Historic triumph: Red Bulls stun Supporters' Shield winners LAFC, ending their unbeaten run

In a stunning turn of events, the New York Red Bulls have pulled off a David-versus-Goliath victory, defeating the Supporters' Shield-winning LAFC 2-0 at Yankee Stadium on Sunday night.

Defensive dominance: Red Bulls neutralize LAFC's potent attack

The Red Bulls' defense stood resolute against LAFC's star-studded lineup, led by the league's leading scorer Carlos Vela.

Aaron Long and Kyle Duncan formed an impenetrable wall at the heart of the Red Bulls' backline, while full-backs John Tolkin and Amro Tarek provided width and defensive support.

Clinical finishing: Royer and Clark capitalize on rare chances

In contrast to LAFC's profligacy in front of goal, the Red Bulls were clinical with their few chances.

A swift counter-attack in the 12th minute saw Cristian Cásseres Jr. play a perfectly weighted pass to Kaku, who skillfully laid it off for Caden Clark to finish.

Derrick Etienne Jr. then sealed the victory with a diving header in the 73rd minute, connecting with Alejandro Romero Gamarra's inch-perfect cross.

Breaking the streak: LAFC's unbeaten run ends at 21

The result snapped LAFC's remarkable 21-match unbeaten run, dating back to their defeat against the Vancouver Whitecaps on May 8.

Bob Bradley's side had been the form team in MLS, but they were outplayed by a determined Red Bulls team that executed their game plan perfectly.

League-wide implications: Red Bulls' victory shakes up playoff race

The Red Bulls' upset has significant implications for the MLS playoff race.

With the victory, they leapfrog LAFC into second place in the Eastern Conference, behind only the New England Revolution.

The loss could also have a psychological impact on LAFC, who had been overwhelming favorites to lift the MLS Cup this season.

Conclusion: Red Bulls prove their mettle against top opposition

The Red Bulls' victory serves as a testament to their resilience and quality.

They have now defeated three of the top teams in the league (LAFC, Seattle Sounders, and Atlanta United) in their last five matches.

With the playoffs on the horizon, the Red Bulls are a team to watch, as they have shown that they can compete with the very best in MLS.