CINCINNATI – The Columbus CrewS 2025 MLS Cup Playoff run ended Tuesday night with a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to rivals FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. the loss concludes the Crew‘s season and marks a third visit to Cincinnati’s home field in 2025, culminating in a decisive Round 1 series loss.
The match began with a physical tone, as both teams sought to establish dominance. Columbus’ Darlington Nagbe was twice challenged by FCC’s Evander, though no fouls were called.Despite seven shots apiece in the first half, neither side could break the deadlock. Crew head coach Wilfried Nancy made an early substitution, replacing Taha Habroune with Jacen Russell-Rowe just before halftime.
Columbus broke the stalemate in the 57th minute. A long ball from goalkeeper Patrick Schulte found Andres Herrera, who connected with Russell-Rowe for a one-touch finish past Roman Celentano, giving the Crew a 1-0 lead. However, Cincinnati responded swiftly, with Brenner leveling the score just minutes later on a corner kick, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Cincinnati continued to press, and Brenner struck again in the 86th minute, converting a pass from samuel Gidi to give FCC a 2-1 advantage. A late free kick from Cincinnati’s Luca Orellano in the 82nd minute narrowly missed the target.
Despite a desperate push in stoppage time, including a Russell-Rowe cross that Yevhen Cheberko couldn’t reach, Columbus was unable to find an equalizer. FC Cincinnati held on to secure the victory and advance in the playoffs.
the Orange and Blue will now face the winners of the Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC series. For columbus and Darlington Nagbe, the 2025 campaign is over.
