When FC Cincinnati first arrived in Major League Soccer back in 2019, New York City FC dominated play against the Ohio side. Then, in 2022, both meetings ended in a draw. Since then, the Orange and Blue have turned the tables, beating the Pigeons in the last five games in all competitions.
Therefore, NYCFC will not only want to win back-to-back games after the team’s brilliant win against the New York Red Bulls, but they will also want to beat the visiting side for the first time since 2021. It will be extremely challenging though, for Cincinnati is in third place and 12 points ahead of NYCFC for a reason. They are one of the best teams in the league and arguably could compete for the MLS Cup.
Yet, the loss to the Philadelphia Union might have sparked something for the Bronx side. NYCFC played well in the draw against Inter Miami CF. Of course, supporters and other MLS fans know exactly what they did in the Hudson River Derby. So, can the Pigeons upset Cincinnati? Can they secure all three points against the Ohio team for the first time since 2021?
This will be an interesting match to watch. Here is a preview of the next game between NYCFC and FC Cincinnati.
Date
NYCFC and Cincinnati will battle it out on Wednesday, October 2.
Time
The match is at 7:30 PM ET.
Location
The game will be in Harrison, NJ at Red Bull Arena.
How to watch
Fans can watch the fixture on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.
Weather
Wednesday will be a cooler night at around 65 degrees. It will be mostly cloudy with a very slight chance of rain.
Injury report
Malachi Jones (leg) will be the only player out for the midweek fixture.
Players to watch
After his first goal with NYCFC over the weekend, fans should watch Tayvon Gray. The Pigeons will need him involved in the attack if they want to beat FC Cincinnati. Additionally, he continues to play well defensively, limiting the other team’s attacking chances. It will be intriguing to see how he plays after his remarkable performance against the Red Bulls.
On Cincinnati, fans should pay attention to Yuya Kubo. The forward has ten goals in MLS this season and consistently is a threat in the attack. He scored in the Leagues Cup match against NYCFC, scoring the winning goal after NYCFC was up 2-0. The Japanese player is having his best season with his club since he joined in 2020.
Prediction
After the games against Miami and the Red Bulls, one can only be hopeful for the next match. NYCFC will beat FC Cincinnati 1-0, with a goal from one of the forwards coming in the second half. The Pigeons will have a strong defensive performance and Matt Freese will make numerous saves.