# FC Cincinnati, New York City FC Set for MLS Cup Playoff Clash ## FC Cincinnati Makes History, Reaches First MLS Cup Playoffs FC Cincinnati has made history by reaching the MLS Cup playoffs for the first time in the club's six-year history. The Orange and Blue secured their spot in the postseason with a 2-1 victory over the New England Revolution on Decision Day. The playoff berth is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication for FC Cincinnati. The club has overcome numerous challenges, including a difficult inaugural season in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic, to reach this milestone. ## New York City FC Aims to Continue Playoff Success New York City FC is a familiar face in the MLS Cup playoffs, having reached the postseason in each of the past five seasons. The Pigeons are the reigning MLS Cup champions, having defeated the Portland Timbers in the 2021 final. NYCFC is led by a talented roster that includes reigning MLS MVP Taty Castellanos. The Argentine forward has scored 19 goals in 32 appearances this season, helping NYCFC secure the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. ## Matchup Preview: FC Cincinnati vs. New York City FC FC Cincinnati and New York City FC will face off in the Eastern Conference semifinals on Sunday, October 16th at Yankee Stadium. The match is a rematch of the 2021 Eastern Conference semifinals, which NYCFC won 2-0. FC Cincinnati will look to use their momentum from their Decision Day victory to upset the defending champions. The Orange and Blue have a solid defensive record, having conceded just 32 goals in 34 regular season matches. New York City FC will be confident in their ability to score goals against FC Cincinnati. The Pigeons have scored 60 goals in 34 regular season matches, the second-highest total in the league. ## Key Players to Watch **FC Cincinnati:** * Luciano Acosta * Brenner * Nick Hagglund **New York City FC:** * Taty Castellanos * Maxi Moralez * Alexander Callens ## Prediction New York City FC is the clear favorite in this matchup, but FC Cincinnati has shown that they are capable of upsetting more fancied opponents. The Orange and Blue will need to be at their best to have a chance of advancing to the Eastern Conference final. **Predicted Score:** New York City FC 2, FC Cincinnati 1
