News Summary
FC Cincinnati will host Columbus Crew in the first round of the MLS playoffs, starting at TQL Stadium. The series format eliminates ties, with the first team to win two games advancing. Both teams have contrasting recent performances. The upcoming games promise intense competition as they vie for the MLS Cup.
FC Cincinnati to Face Columbus Crew in MLS Playoffs
In Game 2, the teams will shift to Lower.com Field in Columbus on Sunday, November 2, beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET. This game will be available exclusively on the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV and will have similar local radio coverage. Should the series require a Game 3, it will return to TQL Stadium on Saturday, November 8, with the kickoff time still to be determined. The format for this playoff round ensures that each match will conclude with a definitive outcome, eliminating ties and aggregate scores. If any match remains tied at the end of regulation time, the winner will be determined through a series of penalty kicks, as no extra time is to be played. The first team to secure two victories will advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. During the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, all matches will be available on MLS Season Pass, which is free for Apple TV subscribers. The MLS Cup final is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, drawing significant interest as teams vie for the ultimate victory. In preparation for the playoffs, fans are invited to attend a Playoffs Launch Party at MadTree Parks & Rec in Blue Ash on Wednesday, October 22, starting at 6:30 p.m. Coverage of the playoffs will include special editions of MLS Countdown and MLS Wrap-Up, along with Spanish-language programs MLS La Previa and El Resumen, providing fans with extensive insights and recaps. FC Cincinnati secured its No. 2 seed position following a decisive 3-0 victory over Montreal on Decision Day. Their recent performance has been strong, with the team recording four wins in five matches leading up to the playoffs. In contrast, Columbus Crew clinched the No. 7 seed by defeating the New York Red Bulls 3-1, though they have only one win in their last five games. The historical context adds excitement to the rivalry, as their last postseason encounter in 2023 saw Columbus prevail 3-2 after extra time. Furthermore, this season, FC Cincinnati has faced challenges against Columbus, managing just one win, while losing once and drawing once in two matchups. With both teams entering the playoffs with contrasting momentum and a rich history, the upcoming games promise to be thrilling for fans of Major League Soccer. The stakes are high as FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew prepare for their showdown in the quest for the MLS Cup. MLS Cup Playoffs Set to Begin with Wild Card Matches The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.Playoff Format and Broadcast Information
Pre-Game Events and Coverage
Team Performance Leading Up to the Playoffs
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
