NYCFC vs FC Cincinnati preview: Can the Boys in Blue finally beat Cincinnati?

New York City FC rested key players against their opening Leagues Cup match against Querétaro F.C. and still managed to get the points after a thrilling performance during the penalty shootout. They punched their ticket to the Round of 32 but must take care of business with FC Cincinnati before anything else. What makes it more challenging is that they will have to find a result in Ohio, which has not been an easy place to play lately. 

The last time that NYCFC beat Cincinnati was in September of 2021 on their home soil, nearly three years ago. The Orange and Blue have bested the Pigeons ever since, while also being one of the best teams in MLS. However, NYCFC should have a full squad in preparation as they look to break the drought. Plus, with Miles Robinson and Matt Miazga out, the odds will play in their favor. 

It is expected to be an even bout Monday night for the top spot in the group. With Talles Magno back and playing in top form, it will create an option in the attack, especially if Santiago Rodríguez and Hannes Wolf are both fit. Of course, it depends on whether Magno is leaving based on recent rumors.

With the final group stage match of the Leagues Cup, here is a preview of NYCFC’s match against FC Cincinnati. 

Date 

The match between NYCFC and FC Cincinnati will take place on Monday, August 5.  

Time 

The match is at 8:00 PM ET.  

Location 

The match is at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, OH.

How to watch 

Fans can watch the game free on Apple, or on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.  

Weather 

It is going to be a clear night on Monday. It is expected to be around 86 degrees after sunset with a decrease in the humidity at 58%.  

Injury Report

Apart from the long-term injury to Malachi Jones (right leg), they will be without Andrés Perea (right leg). Kevin O'Toole is supposed to be healthy, but he has not been available over the last few games.

Please note the full injury report was not released for the first Leagues Cup match, so it is unknown whether it will be released for this game.

Players to watch 

Pending any transfer, Magno should be the player to watch on Monday. He was all over the field against Querétaro F.C., recording a 77 percent pass accuracy while winning eight duels and making seven recoveries. He looks to be right back on track following possible issues with Nick Cushing and getting playing time. The Brazilian needs to work on finding players in the final third and land on the scoresheet more often. He has the foot skills and speed to fake defenders out, but all he needs to do is find that one pass or touch to get it to the back of the net.

For Cincinnati, the best player in MLS for the last two seasons has been Luciano Acosta. He is the front-runner to win MLS MVP again with another upstanding campaign with the team, logging in 11 goals with 15 assists in 24 appearances. NYCFC would not want to give him any space as he can get the ball in the back of the net at any distance.

Prediction 

Unfortunately, NYCFC will be the underdog as they will have to work extra hard to get a result. If they can keep a tie after regulation, the Pigeons could see another win after penalties. However, if they do not keep composure to the midfield, it may lead to counterattacking goals by Cincinnati, with the opponent taking the win with 1-0 or 2-0.