FC Cincinnati vs Columbus Crew Match Recap - Oct 27, 2025

In a pulsating knockout clash at TQL Stadium, FC Cincinnati edged out the Columbus Crew 1-0, advancing to the quarterfinals of the Major League Soccer playoffs. The decisive moment came in the 78th minute, when Kévin Denkey found the back of the net, solidifying Cincinnati's grip on a match they had mostly commanded.

With this victory, FC Cincinnati now sits comfortably in second place with 65 points, showcasing their impressive form that includes five wins from their last six matches. The momentum was palpable as they arrived to face their long-time rivals, packing recent victories including a commanding 3-0 win over CF Montreal and a narrow 1-0 win against the New York Red Bulls. Such performances have made them a formidable opponent, and they carried that confidence into this round of 16 showdown.

On the other hand, Columbus Crew came into the match on a wave of mixed results and currently occupies the seventh spot with 54 points. Despite a strong showing against the New York Red Bulls just nine days prior, their inconsistent form raised concerns. Earlier this season, they had bested Cincinnati in a high-scoring affair, winning 4-2 in July. However, on this night, the Crew struggled to assert their style of play against a defensive Cincinnati.

From the outset, it was clear that Cincinnati had the upper hand. They maintained possession and pressed Columbus high up the pitch. For large stretches of the match, the Crew's defense was put to the test, relying on their goalkeeper and the back line to thwart several promising Cincinnati attacks. Yet, it was Denkey, who had carried much of the offensive workload for Cincinnati in recent games, who ultimately proved to be the hero.

The tension in the stadium crescendoed as Denkey latched onto a well-placed pass, maneuvering through Columbus' defenders before slotting home the only goal of the match. The crowd erupted, the noise reaching a fever pitch as Cincinnati fans celebrated the pivotal moment.

Despite Columbus's efforts to respond, they could not find an equalizer. The match ended with tempers flaring, a reflection of the high stakes and deep-rooted rivalries at play.

As the playoffs progress, Cincinnati's victory not only secures them a spot in the next round but also reinforces their status as serious contenders for the MLS Cup. For Columbus, the loss serves as a harsh reminder of their inconsistency and the challenges they need to address if they hope to return to the playoff conversation in the future.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction that Columbus would pull off an upset, it is safe to say that the only upset here was my expectation. As the playoff drama unfolds, FC Cincinnati looks poised to capitalize on their current form, while Columbus will need to regroup and recalibrate as they turn their sights to the future.