No David Villa, no worries for New York City, which recorded a late 1-0 win at home to Sporting Kansas City in MLS.

Injured on international duty after being called into the Spain squad for the first time since the 2014 World Cup, New York captain and the league's leading goalscorer Villa missed Thursday's (AEST) clash.

But Jack Harrison stepped up with an 84th-minute winner to help Patrick Vieira's New York extend its unbeaten streak to five matches.

After team-mate Sean Okoli rattled the crossbar early in the second half, Harrison volleyed home the winner with six minutes remaining at Yankee Stadium.

With the win, New York stayed within six points of Eastern Conference and Supporters' Shield leader Toronto FC.

Sporting KC is third in the Western Conference and two points adrift of reigning MLS Cup champion Seattle Sounders.