In a highly anticipated clash, FC Cincinnati is gearing up to kick off their Leagues Cup campaign against LIGA MX outfit Querétaro as they seek their second-ever trophy. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as the two teams lock horns on Thursday night in what promises to be a riveting showdown.
The stakes are high as Cincinnati finds themselves in East 1 alongside New York City FC, whom they are set to face on August 5 in group-stage action. With only the top two teams from each group progressing to the knockout stages, every match is crucial in this World Cup-style tournament that features a total of 47 clubs – 18 from LIGA MX and 29 from MLS.
Despite a recent slump in form, Cincinnati remains in a strong position in the Eastern Conference table, sitting in second place and third in the race for the Supporters’ Shield. Their hopes of turning things around are bolstered by a brief respite from domestic action and the opportunity to make their mark in the Leagues Cup.
The arrival of new center-back Chidozie Awaziem from Boavista is expected to provide a much-needed defensive boost for Cincinnati, who will be looking to shore up their backline. Awaziem, a Nigerian international, is set to make his debut and form a partnership with the talented Miles Robinson, who is currently representing Team USA at the Olympics.
Key player Luciano Acosta, affectionately known as Cincy’s No. 10, is aiming to secure back-to-back Landon Donovan MLS MVP awards. The Argentine playmaker has been instrumental for his team, contributing 11 goals and 18 assists in league play so far, putting him on track to surpass his impressive goal involvement tally from last season.
On the other side of the pitch, Querétaro is a club in need of a turnaround after a string of poor results in their domestic campaign. With their last win dating back to April, the Mexican side will be hoping for a change in fortunes as they take on their MLS opponents in the Leagues Cup.
Fielding a lineup with former MLS forwards such as Aké Loba, Ronaldo Cisneros, and Rubio Rubín, Querétaro will be looking to their experienced goalkeeper Guillermo Allison to lead them to success. Allison, who put in a heroic performance with six saves in their recent match against NYCFC, will be a key figure as Querétaro aims to make a statement in the tournament.
With both teams eager to make their mark in the Leagues Cup and progress to the knockout stages, all eyes will be on Thursday night’s showdown between FC Cincinnati and Querétaro as they battle it out for glory on the pitch.
