Cincinnati, October 26, 2025
News Summary
FC Cincinnati is set to host their arch-rivals, Columbus Crew, in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs. Scheduled for October 27 at TQL Stadium, this Best-of-3 series will define which team advances further in the competition. The intensity of the Hell is Real derby adds to the stakes, with both teams looking for victory. Fans are encouraged to wear orange to support FC Cincinnati during this high-pressure encounter, while key players like Evander and potentially sidelined Diego Rossi will play crucial roles.
Cincinnati is gearing up for an exciting matchup as FC Cincinnati prepares to take on their arch-rivals Columbus Crew in the first round of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. This showdown is scheduled for October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium, marking the beginning of a Best-of-3 series that will determine which team advances to the next round.
As the #2 seed in both the Eastern Conference and overall in the league playoff standings, FC Cincinnati is entering the playoffs with significant momentum, having qualified for the postseason for the fourth consecutive year. Starting the series at home is crucial, as Cincinnati will host Game 1 and, if necessary, Game 3, while Columbus will host Game 2 at Lower.Com Field on November 2, 2025. If the teams are tied after regulation time, the match will go to a penalty shootout, eliminating the possibility of draws.
The rivalry between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew, known as the “Hell is Real” derby, adds extra intensity to this matchup. Fans and players alike are looking forward to high-stakes competition that is common in this fixture. Notable player contributions are expected, with Cincinnati’s midfielder Evander, a finalist for this year’s Landon Donovan MLS MVP, leading the way after setting a club record with 22 goals this season. On the other side, Columbus Crew’s top scorer, Diego Rossi, who has netted 16 goals this season, may miss the first game due to a hamstring injury, adding uncertainty to Crew’s attack.
Historically, winning Game 1 in playoff series is a significant advantage, with 87% of teams that win the opening match advancing in subsequent rounds. FC Cincinnati has also shown strength in close contests, winning 16 games by one goal throughout the season. Their overall record against Columbus Crew stands at 4 wins, 8 losses, and 6 draws, including one win and one loss in their two meetings this season. Columbus Crew has been dominant in possession with an average of 58.2%, but FC Cincinnati’s transition-focused strategy often catches opponents off guard.
For the upcoming match, FC Cincinnati is encouraging fans to participate in an “Orange Out” event at TQL Stadium, wearing the club’s colors to show support. Tensions and excitement are likely to peak as both sides vie for supremacy and bragging rights in Ohio. The playoff history and competitive spirit of both teams promise to make this matchup electrifying.
Match Schedule
- Game 1: October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
- Game 2: November 2, 2025, at Lower.Com Field (Columbus)
- Game 3 (if necessary): November 8, 2025, at TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
Team Performance Overview
| Aspect | FC Cincinnati | Columbus Crew |
|---|---|---|
| Playoff Seed | #2 Seed | #3 Seed |
| Overall Record vs. Each Other | 4-8-6 | 4-8-6 |
| Goals This Season | 22 (Evander) | 16 (Diego Rossi) |
| Home Playoff Record | 3-1-1 | N/A |
Injury Report
- FC Cincinnati: No major injuries reported.
- Columbus Crew: Diego Rossi – Questionable (hamstring injury).
FAQs
1. When is the FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew playoff match?
The first match is scheduled for October 27, 2025.
2. What is the playoff format?
This year’s playoffs will be a Best-of-3 series format. If the match is tied after 90 minutes, it will go directly to penalties.
3. What is the history of the rivalry?
Both teams share a heated rivalry known as the “Hell is Real” derby, which deepens competition and excitement.
4. How can fans support FC Cincinnati during the match?
Fans are encouraged to wear orange for the “Orange Out” event to show their support.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Inter Miami CF Remains Top Favorite for MLS Cup
Portland Timbers Advance in MLS Playoffs with 3-1 Victory
Lionel Messi Achieves MLS Player of the Month Honor
Voting Opens for MLS Save of the Year
FC Cincinnati Faces Columbus Crew in MLS Playoffs
MLS Cup Playoffs Wild Card Matches Confirmed
Injury Report Before Matchday 33: MLS Teams Face Key Player Absences
Lionel Messi Leads MLS MVP Race
Portland Timbers Set to Face San Diego FC on Decision Day
MLS Teams Prepare for Decision Day Drama
Additional Resources
- FC Cincinnati Official Website
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Fox Sports
- Google Search: FC Cincinnati
- Cincinnati.com
- Google Scholar: FC Cincinnati
- MLS Soccer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FC Cincinnati
- Khel Now
- Google News: Columbus Crew
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