FC Cincinnati Stun by Columbus Crew

FC Cincinnati suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to the Columbus Crew in the 2023 MLS Eastern Conference Final, held on December 2, 2023, at TQL Stadium. Despite leading 2-0 at halftime, Cincinnati couldn’t hold off a determined Columbus comeback that culminated in extra time.

Match Recap
Early Lead for Cincinnati: Brandon Vázquez opened the scoring in the 14th minute, assisted by Aaron Boupendza. Just before halftime, MLS MVP Luciano Acosta doubled the lead with a well-executed free kick in stoppage time (45’+3) .

Columbus Comeback: In the second half, Columbus intensified their attack. An own goal by Cincinnati’s Alvas Powell in the 75th minute reduced the deficit, and Diego Rossi’s goal in the 86th minute leveled the match, sending it into extra time .

Decisive Moment: Christian Ramírez secured the victory for Columbus with a goal in the 115th minute, capitalizing on a header from Cucho Hernández .

This match marked the first time in MLS history that in-state rivals faced off in a conference final, adding another intense chapter to the “Hell Is Real” derby. The loss ended FC Cincinnati’s record-setting season, where they had previously won the Supporters’ Shield.