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Columbus Crew vs FC Cincinnati: Game 2 Preview, match information

Everything you need to know before kickoff.
ByTyler Fisher|
Oct 27, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew defender Malte Amundsen (18) runs after the ball in the second half against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Oct 27, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew defender Malte Amundsen (18) runs after the ball in the second half against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Columbus Crew delivered an abysmal performance in Cincinnati, putting their backs against the wall as the series shifts back to Ohio’s capital for Game 2 of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. Needing a win, the Crew must tighten its defense, improve passing accuracy, and capitalize on home advantage to avoid a first-round exit for the second consecutive year. Their challenge is clear after the first leg exposed key vulnerabilities. 

In the first leg, FC Cincinnati stifled the Black & Gold with a high defensive line and constant pressure. Turnovers and mistakes created havoc for the Crew, but the team will need to regroup and find answers at home if it hopes to keep its playoff run alive. 

One thing that favors the Crew is that the fortress known as Lower.com Field will be filled, as the Club looks to extend its sellout streak to nine games across all competitions. 

Will the Black & Gold pull out the win, or falter at home and meet their demise yet again? 

Below is all the match information you need to know before kickoff. 

Kits, match officials, broadcast team

Columbus will be donning their Charlie Brown kit, with the visitors wearing their Orange and Blue Legacy kit. The match officials are listed as follows: 

  • REFEREE: Guido Gonzales Jr. 
  • ASST. REFEREE 1: Nick Uranga
  • ASST. REFEREE 2: Ian McKay
  • FOURTH OFFICIAL: Ricardo Montero Araya
  • VAR: Timothy Ford
  • ASST. VAR: Mike Kampmeinert

Jake Zivin and Taylor Twellman will be on the call for the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ broadcast in English, with Sammy Sadovnik and Diego Valeri on the Spanish broadcast. You can also listen to the home broadcast on 105.7 FM or the iHeartRadio app, with Chris Doran on the call. Juan Valladares will have the Spanish radio call on La Mega 103.1 FM/ 107.1 FM. 

Kickoff, injuries

Kickoff from  Field is slated for 6:30 p.m. EDT. 

Injury Report

COLUMBUS: Wessam Abou Ali (Ankle) and Mohamed Farsi (Pelvis) are listed as OUT.

FC Cincinnati: Matt Miazga (Leg) is listed as OUT. Brad Smith (Leg) is listed as Questionable.

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