FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew clash in the Eastern Conference finals of MLS Cup playoffs at TQL Stadium on December 2.
The two Ohio-based clubs are on the cusp of qualifying for the grand finale, where the winner will go on to host the decisive contest against either LAFC or Houston Dynamo.
Outside of their 3-0 game one triumph against New York Red Bulls, the Orange and Blue have skirted by their opponents in their last two outings. Game two against Red Bulls saw Pat Noonan’s side come out on top in penalty kicks 1-1 (8-7) before narrowly defeating Philadelphia Union 1-0 in the conference semifinals.
On the other hand, Columbus flew past Atlanta United 2-0 in game one in the first round before falling 4-2 in game two. However, the Crew bounced back in game three by claiming the series with a convincing 4-2 triumph. Thanks to a couple of extra time strikes, the Crew were able to manage a road win in the semifinals vs Orlando City, 2-0.
FC Cincinnati vs Columbus Crew H2H record
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Although Santiago Arias and Obinna Nwobodo were included in the matchday squad against the Union, neither came off the bench in the win. The two will likely be in the same scenario again this time around, maybe seeing minutes off the bench in the second half.
While it was assumed by many that Matt Miazga would be eligible for selection against Columbus after serving a one-match ban against Philadelphia, his status for the conference final remains up in the air, meaning Alvas Powell could get the nod at center-back again.
FC Cincinnati predicted lineup vs Columbus Crew (3-4-1-2): Celentano; Mosquera, Miazga, Murphy; Gaddis, Kubo, Moreno, Barreal; Acosta; Boupendza, Vazquez.
Wilfried Nancy will have his full squad available for selection as the Crew have no fresh injury concerns following their victory at Exploria Stadium.
Columbus Crew predicted lineup vs FC Cincinnati (3-4-3): Schulte; Moreira, Camacho, Amundsen; Farsi, Nagbe, Morris, Yeboah; Matan, Hernandez, Rossi.
As we’ve seen previously in MLS, home field advantage remains second to none. Cincinnati were the best side at home in the league during the regular season, winning 13 of their 17 home games on their way to the Supporters’ Shield title. However, after the Crew knocked off the Lions at Exploria Stadium, could they defy the odds again?
Both teams have excellent coaches, two of the top masterminds that have been in their own class this term. But with the injuries to the FCC squad, the Crew might have a slight advantage. The Crew will take this one in extra time once again, coming away with a 2-1 triumph to reach MLS Cup final for the first time since 2020.
Prediction: FC Cincinnati 1-2 Columbus Crew
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