FC Cincinnati Battles Columbus Crew in Crucial Playoff Matchup
Columbus, OH - November 3, 2025 - FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew are set to face off tonight in Game 2 of their MLS playoff series, with FC Cincinnati currently leading 1-0 after a shutout victory in Game 1 on October 27. The match will determine which Eastern Conference team advances to face either Nashville or Miami – Nashville won the first game of their series 2-1, but Miami forced a deciding third game scheduled for November 8 in Florida.
This playoff series marks a pivotal moment for both Ohio clubs, continuing a growing rivalry within Major League Soccer. FC Cincinnati is looking to build on their momentum from the first game, where they secured a 1-0 win, while the Crew aim to even the series and force a decisive third match.
Starting Lineups:
FC Cincinnati will field the same starting lineup as Game 1: Roman Celentano, nick hagglund, Malte Amundsen, Sean Zawadski, Andres Herrera, Darlington Nagbe, Dylan Chambost, Taha Habroune, Max Arfsten, Hugo Picard, and Steven Moreira.
Playoff Landscape:
Philadelphia has already advanced in the Eastern Conference, sweeping Chicago 3-0.Charlotte and New York City are tied in their series and will play Game 3 on November 7. In the Western Conference, Vancouver has eliminated Dallas. LAFC leads Austin 1-0, and Minnesota leads Seattle 1-0, with Game 2s upcoming.San Diego and Portland will play a deciding Game 3 next weekend.
Recent Accolades:
FC Cincinnati players have recently been recognized with league awards. defender Nick Hagglund was named the 2025 MLS Comeback Player of the Year, the first major individual MLS honor for Hagglund and the first time an FC cincinnati player has received the award. Goalkeeper roman Celentano won the 2025 MLS Save of the Year award for his performance during a 2-1 win against Nashville SC on March 29. Evander is a finalist for the MLS MVP award, with other season awards like Best XI still to be announced.
