Sat May 17 22:30:00 UTC 2025: ## FC Cincinnati Faces Columbus Crew in Heated “Hell is Real” Derby with Eastern Conference Lead on the Line

**COLUMBUS, OH** – FC Cincinnati travels to Lower.com Field this Saturday to face the Columbus Crew in a highly anticipated “Hell is Real” derby, with the top spot in the MLS Eastern Conference hanging in the balance. The Orange and Blue are riding high after a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC on Wednesday, fueled by Kevin Denkey’s seventh goal of the season and a clean sheet from goalkeeper Roman Celentano. This win secured their sole possession of first place, but the Crew are hot on their heels, just two points behind.

Head Coach Pat Noonan expressed excitement for the challenge, emphasizing the importance of representing the club in this rivalry game. Midfielder Obinna Nwobodo echoed this sentiment, stating, “This game is always the game that we play knowing fully well that we’re playing this for history, for culture, for what the team stands for.”

While past encounters at Lower.com Field have been challenging for FC Cincinnati, with a 2-1 victory just over a year ago marking their first road win in the derby, they have been improving. Last season saw a road victory and a scoreless home draw against the Crew, setting the stage for Saturday’s showdown.

Columbus boasts a strong home record, having only lost once this season, excluding a match played in Cleveland. They are also tied for third in the MLS in goals allowed, making them a tough opponent to crack. However, FC Cincinnati’s recent form has been characterized by narrow victories, with each of their last seven wins decided by a single goal. Columbus, on the other hand, has shown resilience, battling back to earn draws in recent matches against CF Montreal and Philadelphia.

In good news for FC Cincinnati, defender Matt Miazga and forward Luca Orellano have returned from injury and will be available for selection on Saturday.

The match kicks off at 7:15 p.m. ET and promises to be a fiery encounter between two of the Eastern Conference’s top teams, with bragging rights and crucial points at stake in the Battle for Ohio.

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