NYCFC vs FC Cincinnati preview: Another match against the Orange and Blue

When New York City FC resumed the Major League Soccer season last weekend, there was some hope they could grab a win against Minnesota United FC.  The players predominantly played well against the Loons.  There were also some good team debuts too. 

However, the inability to score goals plagued the team in another game.  As a result, the Pigeons suffered another home loss in 2023.  They remain at five wins. The path to the playoffs is becoming narrower and narrower. 

This weekend, NYCFC will head to Ohio to take on FC Cincinnati for the third time this season.  The first two games, the U.S. Open Cup match, and the first MLS match, ended in losses.  Before this season, the Bronx side was undefeated against the Orange and Blue.  Alas, this is a whole different season, so expectations are low going into the fixture. 

Let’s not wait any longer.  Here is a preview of the upcoming fixture between NYCFC and Cincinnati. 

When is the match between New York City FC and FC Cincinnati?

The match will take place on Saturday, August 26, at 7:30 PM.

Where is the NYCFC game?

The game will take place in Cincinnati, Ohio at TQL Stadium.

Where can fans watch the NYCFC game?

Fans can catch NYCFC on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.

What can New York City FC expect from Cincinnati?

New York City FC can expect the same tough Cincinnati side that they faced back in May.  There is a reason the home side is at the top of the Eastern Conference table; they are one of the best teams, if not the best, in MLS this year.  At the same time, the Pigeons, especially on the road, have not been the best team record-wise. 

Although, Cincinnati is not invincible.  They were recently knocked out in the Round of 32 in the Leagues Cup and the semifinals of the U.S. Open Cup via a penalty kick shootout.  Plus, they lost to the Columbus Crew in the first MLS fixture after the break.

At home, the league leaders have only dropped two points.  Therefore, despite recent losses, it is likely they will outplay and outscore NYCFC.  Brandon Vazquez might only have four goals in MLS this year, but he is still a huge threat.  Then, Luciano Acosta leads the team with 12 goals in MLS.  The talented midfielder will be a threat to the defense and cause many problems throughout the 90 minutes. 

Which NYCFC player should supporters watch?

For this match, NYCFC supporters should watch Mounsef Bakrar.  The striker scored in his first start against Toronto FC.  Since then, he has struggled to find the back of the net.  Of course, it is expected he is still adjusting to his new team.  Patience will be needed.

Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how the player handles a full-away match.  Red Bull Arena is somewhat of a home venue, so the fixture against the Red Bulls does not count.  TQL Stadium is a difficult place to play now.  Fans should watch Bakrar to see how he handles the environment and pressure to score.

The Algerian has been a threat though, especially last week against Minnesota.  He led the team with six shots and one on target.  The addition of him in the offense has made a difference.  Maybe he will surprise everyone and score a goal in Ohio.

What is the prediction for New York City FC?

As many know, New York City FC struggles on the road.  There have been some games where the team played well, but the lack of goals led to the loss or draw.  Meanwhile, Cincinnati is a formidable team.  Beating them in Ohio is highly unlikely.

That is why the prediction is that NYCFC will lose, 3-0.  There will be moments of hope, but nobody will score.

The outlook continues to look grim for the Pigeons.  The playoffs continue to move farther away.  It would not be surprising if New York City FC is mathematically eliminated sooner, rather than later.  This is the beautiful game, so anything can happen.