FCC 2

Preview: FC Cincinnati 2 Going for sixth straight win over Union 2

By Jacob Holton

Posted on May 30, 2025

PHOTO: Jon Goldsberry

It’s been a rocky season for FC Cincinnati 2 so far. Just seven goals scored, and only one win to this point, the team looks a far cry from the juggernaut of last season. However, every week is a new opportunity to start a winning streak, and there is still plenty of time to turn the season around.

Coming to town this week is a side that the young Gary’s have never lost to: Philadelphia Union 2. Much like in the MLS season, the Union 2 side is playing very well sitting 15th in the eastern conference of MLS Next Pro. The Union 2 are coming in on good form as well. Three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches.

FCC 2 on the other hand have struggled mightily this season. With just one win all season, they are currently tied for worst scorers in the entire MLS Next Pro. The defending has been quite good though. FCC 2 boasts one of the best defensive records in the league, only giving up 13 goals all season. Unfortunately, Union 2 has the best defensive record in MLS Next pro, with only six goals conceded this season. This is the last thing a team struggling for goals probably wants to see.

Head to Head

This matchup has been incredibly one sided over the last few seasons. FCC 2 has not lost to Union 2 since August 2022. Since that loss, the Orange and Blue have rattled off five wins in a row. In those five wins FCC 2 have outscored their opponent 8-2. This recent run of form against Philadelphia may give them a boost of confidence going into this match.

On the other side, Philadelphia might be looking to exact some revenge on a squad that has owned them in the recent history of this match up. With the form Philly has been in over the last five matches they might fancy their chances at taking all three points this weekend.

Players to watch

Philadelphia Union 2

Cavan Sullivan (Midfielder):

The Philly wonder kid, who recently signed a record contract with the Union which includes a possible future transfer to Manchester City, is the player to watch for Union 2. There is, of course, a chance he doesn’t make the trip, as he has been splitting his time between Union 2 and the senior team. If he does play though it’s going to be a treat. Sullivan is immensely talented. He’s only 15 years old, but you’d never be able to tell by the way he plays. He’s great with the ball at his feet, an excellent passer, and he can definitely score goals. He’s not a perfect player yet, but he’s got bags of potential and will be “can’t miss” if he plays in this match.

FC Cincinnati 2

Kenji Mboma Dem (Striker):

The leading goal scorer and the top assist man for FCC 2, Kenji might be the best chance FCC 2 has to produce a result this weekend. He’s a powerful striker, and does well at maintaining possession. He’s got three goals and two assists in his last five matches so he’s in great form headed into this match. He will need some help in order to beat the Union 2, but Kenji will likely be a part of a win for FCC 2, if they can pull it off.