News Summary
FC Cincinnati has clinched their place in the MLS Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season, earning the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference. They will face their rivals, the Columbus Crew, in a pivotal three-match playoff series, starting with Game 1 at TQL Stadium. The teams are known for their intense rivalry, and players emphasize the importance of a strong start. The playoff match will feature an ‘Orange Out’ event for fans and highlights a notable history of competition between the teams.
Cincinnati – FC Cincinnati has secured their spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season, earning the prestigious #2 seed in the Eastern Conference and across all of Major League Soccer (MLS). The team will face off against their heated rivals, the Columbus Crew, on October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium in the initial game of a three-match playoff series.
This significant matchup forms part of the Best-of-3 series format, with Game 1 to be hosted by FC Cincinnati and Game 2 to occur at Lower.Com Field in Columbus. If necessary, the deciding Game 3 would return to Cincinnati, heightening the intensity of the ongoing rivalry. Known as the “Hell is Real” derby, this matchup is one of the fiercest rivalries in MLS, and excitement is building as both teams prepare for a tightly contested battle.
Defender Miles Robinson stated that the team is enthusiastic and ready for the challenges ahead in the playoffs. Midfielder Evander, who has emerged as a standout player and was recently a finalist for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP, mentioned the importance of treating this match like an “early final,” stressing the necessity for detail-oriented play and concentration. Evander has also made headlines this season by setting a club record with 22 goals, a significant achievement going into the playoffs.
In this series format, draws will not be an option—if a match ends in a tie after the regular 90 minutes, it will move directly into a penalty shootout. Historical data points to the importance of Game 1, with 87% of teams winning the first game typically advancing in the playoffs. Therefore, ensuring a strong start is critical for FC Cincinnati in this heated contest.
Historically, FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew have faced off multiple times, with an all-time record of 4-8-6 against the Crew, including a 0-1-1 performance this season. Notably, FC Cincinnati upset the Crew with a 1-0 victory in the 2017 US Open Cup, an unforgettable encounter for both fanbases.
As part of the playoff atmosphere, fans are encouraged to participate in the “Orange Out” event, where they will wear orange to show support during the Game 1 clash. Looking ahead, Game 2 is scheduled for November 2, 2025, in Columbus, and Game 3, if necessary, will take place on November 8, 2025.
Columbus Crew has experienced fluctuating performances this season but secured a strong finish on Decision Day. Their top scorer, Diego Rossi, who has netted 16 goals this season, is currently dealing with a hamstring injury, casting uncertainty over his participation in the crucial first match against FC Cincinnati. Both teams have faced challenges with injuries impacting key player availability, adding another layer of complexity to the matchup.
FC Cincinnati has a commendable home playoff record of 3-1-1 in their recent postseason history, indicating they will seek to capitalize on the advantage of playing at home. The teams exhibit contrasting styles, with Columbus, led by head coach Wilfried Nancy, focusing on possession and FC Cincinnati, under head coach Pat Noonan, employing a more aggressive, transition-oriented strategy.
The rivalry between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew not only represents competition on the soccer field but also inspires heightened emotions and pride for in-state bragging rights, drawing comparisons to other significant sports rivalries across the country. With tensions running high and the stakes elevated, fans and players alike are poised for an extraordinary playoff experience.
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Additional Resources
- FC Cincinnati Official Website
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Fox Sports
- Google Search: FC Cincinnati
- Cincinnati.com
- Google Scholar: FC Cincinnati
- MLS Soccer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FC Cincinnati
- Khel Now
- Google News: Columbus Crew
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