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New York City FC opened up their Leagues Cup journey last weekend after they earned a win in a penalty kick shootout against Querétaro F.C. at Yankee Stadium. The two points were enough already to secure a place in the Round of 32 since their next opponent, FC Cincinnati, beat the Liga MX side. As such, the Pigeons’ result against the Ohio team does not matter when they face them in the second game.
Still, NYCFC will want to win the match. Nick Cushing should send his best team out there so they can try to win the group. It will be difficult though since FC Cincinnati is good again this year. The Bronx team already lost to them earlier in the season and has not beaten them since 2021. 2022 was the year of the draws while 2023 saw them lose to the Orange and Blue for the first time. They have continued to do so.
Anything can happen though. Sometimes a little luck can lead to a win. NYCFC should not go in there thinking they will lose either. They have beaten and used to dominate Cincinnati in the past. They can do so again. It does not matter that they are in second place and have players like Luciano Acosta. The Pigeons have players like Maxi Moralez and Santiago Rodríguez.
Meanwhile, if these players are still with the team, Cushing should give Talles Magno and Christian McFarlane the start. Rumors have them departing the club. However, it is unknown whether McFarlane, who is supposed to sign with Manchester City FC, will be loaned back for the rest of the season. Of course, the NYCFC head coach would have to ensure he continues to earn minutes.
How to watch, time, and more of the Leagues Cup match between NYCFC and FC Cincinnati
Date
Time
8:00 PM ET, with expected kickoff at 8:10 PM ET
How to watch on TV and streaming
The MLS Season Pass via Apple TV
How to watch in person
Fans would have to fly to Ohio
How to listen
newyorkcityfc.com/radio, via the NYCFC app, and SiriusXM FC on Channel 157
How to follow
If NYCFC supporters cannot watch or listen to the game, they can follow along via NYCFC’s X account and MLS Soccer’s timeline.
Final Notes
With only two games in the group round of the Leagues Cup, and with two of three teams moving on, it is very easy to not play one's best. NYCFC only played the one game to continue their Leagues Cup journey. However, they should try to win in the final match.