Cincinnati, OH, October 26, 2025
News Summary
FC Cincinnati has qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the fourth time in a row, securing the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference. The team will face their fierce rivals, the Columbus Crew, in a best-of-3 playoff series starting at TQL Stadium. This intense matchup, known as the ‘Hell is Real’ derby, adds significant stakes, with historical rivalry and playoff implications. Fans are encouraged to wear orange to support their team in this crucial opening game, scheduled for October 27.
FC Cincinnati Set to Face Columbus Crew in “Hell is Real” Derby for 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs
Cincinnati, OH – FC Cincinnati has officially qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season and has secured the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference and all of MLS. The first playoff match for FC Cincinnati will be against the Columbus Crew on October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium.
This highly anticipated matchup is part of the Best-of-3 series format that opens the playoffs, with FC Cincinnati hosting Game 1 and, if needed, Game 3, while Game 2 will be played at Lower.Com Field in Columbus. The two teams share a fierce rivalry known as the “Hell is Real” derby, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the contest.
Match Details and Format
The series format for the playoffs will ensure there are no draws; if a match is tied after 90 minutes, it will move directly into a penalty shootout. Winning Game 1 has historically proven to be crucial, with 87% of teams that win the opening match going on to advance in the playoff series. Given this statistic, securing a strong start will be critical for FC Cincinnati.
Team Performance and Historical Context
In terms of historical matchups, FC Cincinnati has faced the Columbus Crew a total of 18 times, holding an all-time record of 4-8-6 against their rivals, including a 0-1-1 record this season. Notably, FC Cincinnati scored a memorable 1-0 upset against the Crew in the 2017 US Open Cup. This playoff series could mark a significant turning point in their competitive history.
Key Players
FC Cincinnati’s midfielder Evander, a standout player who has recently become a finalist for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP, set a club record this season with 22 goals. Meanwhile, the Columbus Crew’s top scorer, Diego Rossi, who has netted 16 goals, is currently uncertain for the first game due to a hamstring injury. The condition of key players will likely influence both teams’ strategies and outcomes as they enter the playoffs.
Home Advantage and Team Dynamics
FC Cincinnati boasts a strong home playoff record of 3-1-1 in recent playoff history. The team has excelled in tightly contested games, winning 16 games by a single goal this season. In contrast, Columbus Crew has showcased its tendency to dominate possession, with an average of 58.2% this season. FC Cincinnati’s head coach Pat Noonan advocates a transition-heavy approach, while Columbus Crew’s head coach Wilfried Nancy emphasizes ball control.
Fan Engagement
To heighten the atmosphere at TQL Stadium, fans are encouraged to participate in the “Orange Out” event by wearing orange on game day. Excitement and anticipation are expected as the intense rivalry rekindles with playoff implications.
Schedule
- Game 1: October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
- Game 2: November 2, 2025, at Lower.Com Field (Columbus)
- Game 3 (if needed): November 8, 2025, at TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
With the stakes high and both teams coming prepared, this rivalry matchup could have significant ramifications not only for their playoff aspirations but also for in-state bragging rights in Ohio.
FAQ Section
What is the “Hell is Real” derby?
The “Hell is Real” derby is the rivalry matchup between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew, emphasizing competition for in-state bragging rights.
When is the first playoff game between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew?
The first playoff game is scheduled for October 27, 2025, at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati.
What is the playoff format?
The playoffs will follow a Best-of-3 series format with no draws; matches tied after 90 minutes will go to penalty shootouts.
How do both teams stack up in their all-time rivalry?
FC Cincinnati has an all-time record of 4-8-6 against Columbus Crew, including a 0-1-1 record this season.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
FC Cincinnati’s Evander, a finalist for MLS MVP with 22 goals, and Columbus Crew’s Diego Rossi, their top scorer with 16 goals, are significant players to watch, although Rossi’s availability may be affected by injury.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rivalry Name | Hell is Real derby |
| Playoff Format | Best-of-3 series with no draws |
| Game 1 Date | October 27, 2025 |
| Location of Game 1 | TQL Stadium (Cincinnati) |
| All-time record | FC Cincinnati: 4-8-6 against Columbus Crew |
| Key Players | Evander (Cincinnati), Diego Rossi (Columbus) |
| Fan Event | Orange Out at TQL Stadium |
| Injury Concerns | Diego Rossi’s hamstring injury |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Inter Miami CF Leads 2025 MLS Cup Betting Odds
Portland Timbers Secure Playoff Victory Over Real Salt Lake
Lionel Messi Named MLS Player of the Month
FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew Prepare for MLS Cup Playoffs
MLS Cup Playoffs Field Confirmed
Lionel Messi Dominates MLS MVP Race This Season
Portland Timbers to Face San Diego FC on Decision Day
MLS Decision Day Approaches with Key Contenders
Son Heung-Min Makes Debut for LAFC in Draw Against Chicago Fire
Additional Resources
- FC Cincinnati Official Website
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Fox Sports
- Google Search: FC Cincinnati
- Cincinnati.com
- Google Scholar: FC Cincinnati
- MLS Soccer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FC Cincinnati
- Khel Now
- Google News: Columbus Crew
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
