New York City FC take on FC Cincinnati on Monday in Round One, Game 1 of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.
For this edition of 'The Away End' presented by Berkeley College & Rennert International, we spoke to Carter Chapley, Club Reporter for FC Cincinnati.
Hi Carter, thanks for speaking with us again! What did you make of FC Cincinnati's end to the regular season?
Hello again! FC Cincinnati had a quality end to the regular season, beating Philadelphia Union on Decision Day to cap off 2024 with a win. The win was important for the confidence of the squad, but more so the performance was one that earned the victory. The Orange and Blue played one of their more dominant matches of late in that victory and that makes heading into the MLS Cup Playoffs a lot easier on the nerves (at least for us viewing the match).
The two teams have played each other three times already in 2023. What did you make of the previous matchups?
I think those three matchups show just how evenly matched these teams can be and how challenging a series this can be. FCC certainly wasn’t at their best in terms of run of form the last time they met, but NYCFC earned that victory. I think it may just come down to who can execute on their game plan the best, or may just catch the other by surprise with something.
What do you think will be a deciding factor in game one?
Because I said Lucho Acosta will be a key factor last time, I’ll use something else as an example. But put an asterisk on it to say Lucho is always top of mind for FCC.
FC Cincinnati has, of late, struggled to start games in a way they want and has conceded early goals/fallen behind. FCC is usually at their best when playing with a lead and can control the run of play and has struggled when having to break down a team who settles into a block. A strong start for FCC seems vital in these kinds of matches.
What is your prediction for the series overall?
It’s hard to say with this series as to how it will play out. Typically, the team with home field advantage across a three-game series has a pretty stark advantage but FCC has at times this year struggled at home and excelled on the road.
If I had to guess I would say FC Cincinnati wins the series 2 games to 1, and at least one of them is decided by a penalty shootout. I’d maybe add the note to add some stake to my guess that all three games are decided by no more than one goal.
For any of our fans that might be making the trip across for game one, are there any tourist attractions or spots you'd suggest they check out while they're there?
If anyone is making their way to town, once again, welcome! I stand by my suggestion of Rhinegeist Brewing as a solid pregame locale but will add Northern Row as an additional spot for fans looking to experience a supporter bar on matchday (though with the Monday kickoff I’m not sure what the vibes will be). Closer to TQL Stadium is The Pitch and Queen City Radio, both fun, very walkable spots for pregame libations.
As for tourist attractions I must of course recommend Findlay Market, which has something for everyone and is conveniently located on the city's Streetcar route (which is free to ride!)
