TEXT: FC Cincinnati will have a key matchup against the Columbus Crew at their home stadium, TQL Stadium, this weekend. Not only is the match an MLS Eastern Conference final matchup, but it is a historic moment as the two teams meet in the knockout stage for the first time, as well as the first time a team from the same state has met in the Eastern Conference final.
FC Cincinnati are having a pretty good season as they are at the top of the Eastern Conference and showed their considerable strength with a narrow 1-0 win over the Philadelphia Union in their last match. In this match, FC Cincinnati will be banking on the home field advantage at TQL Stadium and will try to get a further win.
The Columbus Crew, on the other hand, were not to be underestimated in the regular season, as they managed to finish third in the league and showed what they are made of in the playoffs. They easily beat Orlando City last week by a score of 2-0, so they will come to this game with confidence.
Looking at the recent head-to-head record between the two sides, Columbus Crew have a good record against FC Cincinnati, winning six of the last 13 matches between the two sides. However, it's worth noting that the Columbus Crew have won just once in six matches on the road against FC Cincinnati, with that victory coming by a score of 3-1 on their first visit to TQL Stadium in 2019.
In all competitions this year, FC Cincinnati has won a total of 19 matches at home, and with another win this weekend, they could tie a certain all-time record.
To summarize, FC Cincinnati has made TQL Stadium their fortress and is fully committed to expanding on their excellent home record. The team has also shown its mettle against in-state rivals this season and has the necessary conviction to prove itself in this matchup.
Columbus Crew have shown great strength this season, especially in the MLS Cup playoffs. As it stands, Columbus Crew are in slightly better form and have a slight advantage going into this game.
