The series between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew has reached its limit. After a 4–0 defeat in Game 2, the orange and blue side needs to find itself again this Saturday at TQL Stadium to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals. The blowout loss in Columbus was a shock, not just because of the scoreline, but because of how it happened. A team that dominated the regular season, finished with 65 points, and earned the right to decide at home simply didn’t show up. They looked flat, and to make matters worse, Yuya Kubo was sent off in the first half. That red card changed everything. What seemed like an even contest turned into a rout. But it’s in moments like this that a title contender proves what it’s really made of.
Cincinnati needs to rediscover its identity in front of its fans
The performance in Game 2 was everything the supporters didn’t expect. But now, the situation is different. Playing at home, Cincinnati usually imposes itself. The team is unbeaten in its last four matches at TQL Stadium, winning three of them, with performances that resemble the side that impressed throughout the regular season. The numbers also help: since the current playoff format was introduced, home teams have won five of the seven deciding games. Head coach Pat Noonan knows it’s time to refocus, tighten the marking, and rebuild confidence.
The attitude has to change. Cincinnati can’t afford to start sluggish. The team has depth, fan support, and the talent to take control against Columbus, especially through long balls and quick transitions.
Crew arrives confident and ready to challenge the favorite
Columbus Crew comes into this one riding high. Their performance in the second game was one of their most complete of the 2025 season. Even before Kubo’s red card, the visitors were already controlling the tempo, showing technical superiority, and taking full advantage of Cincinnati’s mistakes. Head coach Wilfried Nancy is expected to keep the same core that earned that dominant win, trusting in the strong form of his players and the collective efficiency they showed at home.
The Crew also carries good memories from this kind of matchup. In 2023, they beat the same Cincinnati side in the Eastern Conference final after pulling off a historic comeback on their way to winning the MLS Cup. That experience still fuels this squad, and Nancy knows history can serve as motivation. Even away from home, Columbus steps onto the field with confidence and the belief that they can do it again.