The Hell is Real derby between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew has long been characterized by it’s tendency to consist almost entirely of blood pressure raising thrillers. With Saturday’s series-clinching match set to decide which side moves on to the Eastern Conference semi-final, this one looks to be no different. It is slated to be the biggest match played at TQL Stadium since 2023’s Eastern Conference Final, which was also against the Crew.
The series thus far has been a study in contrasts for supporters of the Orange and Blue. Game 1 of the series came on October 27th, a match in which offense was slight for both sides and the penultimate moment came courtesy of Kévin Denkey in the 78th minute. Hopes were high amongst the squad and supporters that FCC could clinch the series when they made the 107 mile trek to Lower.com field on November 2nd. Unfortunately, the Crew had other ideas. The series is now down to Saturday’s match.
The Columbus Crew
The Columbus Crew ended their regular season in seventh place, eleven points behind FC Cincinnati. However, they have proved dangerous in the postseason. Max Arfsten scored one and assisted on two in Game 2 of this series. Diego Rossi has 16 goals this season and assisted Arfsten in his opening goal last match. Jacen Russell-Rowe was also effective in Game 2, and could be factor in Game 3. Daniel Gazdag has always been a troublesome player for FCC. If he plays on Saturday, he likely could cause issues in the midfield.
There is also Darlington Nagbe, who has played successfully with Columbus since 2019. Nagbe announced his retirement after this season, giving the Crew have extra motivation to leave everything on the field.
FC Cincinnati
FCC will unfortunately find themselves without two key players. Yuya Kubo is suspended following his red card in Game 2, and Matt Miazga is out with an injury. However besides those two absences, albeit major ones, the squad is at full strength. Evander is sitting on one yellow card. If he receives a second during Saturday’s match, he will not be eligible to play in the first game of the Conference Semifinals.
It’s never is easy to find victory against your biggest rival, especially coming off such a decisive loss less than a week ago. However, this squad has proven throughout this year’s campaign that they are nothing if not tenacious. This mentality was perfectly summed up by manager Pat Noonan on Thursday, “You can’t go after it scared or you don’t have a chance.”
Saturday’s match will kickoff at 6:00pm. The winner moves on to play either Inter Miami and Nashville, with Game 3 of that series kicking off at 8pm on Saturday.
MATCH INFO
When: Saturday, November 8 at 6:00pm
Where: TQL Stadium
Watch: Apple TV+
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