FC Cincinnati vs. New York City FC Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 24 August 2025

As Major League Soccer approaches its 28th round, FC Cincinnati will host New York City FC at TQL Stadium on 24 August 2025 at 00:30. This match is set to be an intriguing encounter as second-placed Cincinnati aims to maintain their strong position in the league against the 11th-placed visitors.

FC Cincinnati, who are the bookmaker’s favourite, have been in decent form despite their defensive frailties, with their star forward Evander Ferreira scoring 16 goals this season. Cincinnati’s recent form shows a mixed bag of results but their attacking prowess, averaging 2.40 goals in their last five games, remains impressive.

New York City FC, though lower in the table, are no pushovers. They have shown resilience in recent matches, with Alonso Martinez netting 13 goals. The team’s recent defensive performances have improved, as they have managed one clean sheet in their last five outings.

Our recommended bet is to back FC Cincinnati to win, given their strong home record and higher league ranking. Another interesting bet to consider is both teams to score, capitalizing on their scoring tendencies this season.

Expect an exciting clash that could contribute significantly to the playoff narratives of both squads.

FC Cincinnati vs New York City FC Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
Bet on FC Cincinnati to Win	1.89

Best Bet Recommendation:
Bet on FC Cincinnati to Win
Reasoning:

1. League Standing and Form: FC Cincinnati is currently 2nd in the league, showcasing a strong position compared to New York City FC, who are 11th. Cincinnati’s recent form (WLLLW) indicates resilience and capability, especially at home.
2. Home Advantage: FC Cincinnati has a formidable home record, which is a significant factor favoring them in this fixture.
3. Scoring Capability: Cincinnati has a marginally higher average goals scored per match (2.40) in their last five games compared to New York City FC (1.80), making them a more offensive threat.

Another supporting bet to consider is both teams to score, given both sides’ scoring tendencies and lack of consistent clean sheets. This match could see goals from both ends, adding excitement to the clash.

FC Cincinnati vs New York City FC Odds

Looking at the betting odds for the encounter between FC Cincinnati and New York City FC, bookmakers have positioned Cincinnati as the favourites. Their strong home record and current league standing contribute to this stance. Here’s the breakdown:

FC Cincinnati vs New York City FC Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
FC Cincinnati	1.89
Draw	3.72
New York City FC	3.63

Given these odds:

• FC Cincinnati’s favourable odds at 1.89 reflect their higher league position (2nd) and recent strong performances at home.
• The draw at 3.72 suggests a tight contest is possible, although considered a less likely outcome.
• New York City FC’s odds of 3.63 highlight their underdog status, yet they could still spring a surprise, especially considering their ability to score.

These odds support the recommended bet on FC Cincinnati to win, while also pointing to potential value in betting on both teams to score.

FC Cincinnati Team Analysis

FC Cincinnati Recent Performance

FC Cincinnati’s recent form has seen a mix of highs and lows with a record of WLLLW in their last five matches. They managed victories against Portland Timbers and Monterrey, showing their offensive strength by scoring an average of 2.40 goals per game. Despite this aggressive offensive display, their defense has been a point of concern as they haven’t kept a clean sheet in their last five outings.

Interestingly, Cincinnati’s potent attack is spearheaded by top scorer Evander Ferreira, who has netted 16 times this season. His form will be crucial as they aim to sustain their challenge for the top spot in the league.

Overall, while the defense may need tightening up, Cincinnati’s ability to score consistently keeps them in contention for favourable outcomes.

FC Cincinnati Key Players

FC Cincinnati brings several key players to the battlefield, crucial to their success against New York City FC. The standout star is Evander Ferreira, the top scorer with 16 goals this season. His sharp attacking skills and consistent goal-scoring form make him a formidable threat to the New York defense.

Additionally, Kevin Denkey and Ender Echenique have been pivotal upfront, adding depth to the attack. The midfield will see the likes of Pavel Bucha and Stiven Jimenez, whose dynamic play dictates the game’s tempo. Defensively, Matthew Miazga and Miles Robinson are crucial in providing stability at the back.

Here is the expected lineup for FC Cincinnati:

• Goalkeeper: Roman Celentano
• Defenders: Nick Hagglund, Matthew Miazga, Miles Robinson
• Midfielders: Gerardo Valenzuela, Pavel Bucha, Stiven Jimenez, Lukas Engel, Evander
• Forwards: Ender Echenique, Kévin Denkey

This lineup showcases a balanced mix of offensive prowess and defensive resilience, key to securing a positive result.

FC Cincinnati Suspensions & Injuries

FC Cincinnati has a few notable injuries that could impact their performance against New York City FC. Key players currently on the injury list include:

• Yuya Kubo (Ankle injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Paul Walters (Foot injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Sergio Santos (Leg injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Luca Orellano (Leg injury – Potential return Mid September 2025)

These injuries could impact squad depth, particularly in the attacking and midfield departments. However, with star players like Evander Ferreira and Kevin Denkey fit and in form, Cincinnati has the quality to overcome these absences.

The absence of these players may require tactical adjustments from coach Pat Noonan. Nonetheless, the team’s depth and the presence of other key players should help mitigate the impact of these injuries.

FC Cincinnati Tactics and Formation

FC Cincinnati’s tactical blueprint under coach Pat Noonan has primarily featured a 3-4-1-2 formation. This setup allows them to capitalize on their attacking strengths while covering defensive gaps.

Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-1-2
• Key Forward: Evander Ferreira, who has scored 16 goals this season, operates as an attacking midfielder, adding creative flair.
• Midfield Duo: Pavel Bucha and Stiven Jimenez play pivotal roles in controlling the midfield, both defensively and offensively.
• Defensive Trio: Nick Hagglund, Matthew Miazga, and Miles Robinson form the backbone of the defense, focusing on stability and cutting off counter-attacks.
• Offensive Strategy: Cincinnati leverages the width provided by wing-backs Gerardo Valenzuela and Lukas Engel, emphasizing quick transitions and crossing opportunities.

This structure ensures a robust balance between defense and attack, making Cincinnati a formidable side, especially when playing at home.

New York City FC Team Analysis

New York City FC Recent Performance

New York City FC has showcased a mixed bag of performances recently, evidenced by their record of WLWLW in the last five matches. Their attacking unit has been quite effective, averaging 1.80 goals per game in this period. Despite their offensive prowess, their defense has managed just one clean sheet in five outings, indicating a vulnerability at the back.

Their last matches included a solid 2-1 win against Nashville SC, demonstrating their ability to clinch close games. However, they also suffered a shortfall against Toluca in the Leagues Cup, losing 2-1.

Key striker Alonso Martinez has been a bright spot for the team, netting 13 goals this season, making him a crucial player in their quest to climb the standings. Overall, while NYCFC has shown attacking promise, consistency, especially in defense, is an area they need to improve.

New York City FC Key Players

New York City FC boasts a few standout players who will be pivotal in their match against FC Cincinnati. Leading the line is Alonso Martinez, the team’s top scorer with 13 goals this season. His striking prowess and consistent form will pose a significant threat to Cincinnati’s defense.

In midfield, Maxi Moralez is a key player who dictates the tempo of the game, contributing both defensively and offensively. Andres Perea also plays a crucial role, providing support in transition and helping control the central areas of the pitch.

Defensively, Strahinja Tanasijevic and Justin Haak will be key in trying to contain Cincinnati’s strong attacking lineup, particularly Evander Ferreira.

Expected lineup for New York City FC:

• Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
• Defenders: Tayvon Gray, Strahinja Tanasijevic, Justin Haak, Kevin O’Toole
• Midfielders: Maxi Moralez, Aiden O’Neill, Andres Perea
• Forwards: Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Alonso Martinez, Hannes Wolf

Their balance of offensive talent and defensive strength will be crucial in trying to earn a favourable result on the road.

New York City FC Suspensions & Injuries

New York City FC is dealing with several injury concerns that could affect their squad depth and starting lineup. Notable players currently sidelined include:

• Malachi Jones (Leg injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Keaton Parks (Leg injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Thiago Martins (Leg injury – Potential return Early September 2025)
• Nico Cavallo (Leg injury – Potential return Mid September 2025)

These injuries mean NYCFC will need to rely on their squad depth and versatility to fill the gaps. The absences in defense, particularly of Thiago Martins, might make them more vulnerable at the back.

Despite these challenges, head coach Pascal Jansen will likely lean on key players like Alonso Martinez and Maxi Moralez to help mitigate the impact of these injuries, as they seek to secure a positive result away against FC Cincinnati.

New York City FC Tactics and Formation

New York City FC, under the guidance of coach Pascal Jansen, typically opts for a balanced approach in their formations. For the upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, they are expected to line up in a flexible 4-3-3 formation.

Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Alonso Martinez, who has bagged 13 goals this season, will lead the attack and be key in breaking down Cincinnati’s defense.
• Midfield Trio: Maxi Moralez, Aiden O’Neill, and Andres Perea will work in tandem to control the midfield, offering both defensive cover and opportunities to press forward.
• Defensive Structure: Strahinja Tanasijevic and Justin Haak will anchor the backline, aiming to thwart Cincinnati’s offensive threats.
• Offensive Strategy: The team tends to leverage pace and width, with wingers like Nicolas Fernandez Mercau and Hannes Wolf expected to provide crosses and stretch the opposition’s defense.

This tactical setup relies on a solid balance between attack and defense, aiming to exploit Cincinnati’s occasional defensive lapses while maintaining structure at the back.

FC Cincinnati vs New York City FC Head-to-Head Statistics

When dissecting the head-to-head statistics between FC Cincinnati and New York City FC, a clear pattern of closely fought contests emerges. Here’s a look at their last five meetings:

• 2025-05-04: New York City FC 1-0 FC Cincinnati (Major League Soccer)
• 2024-11-09: FC Cincinnati 0-0 New York City FC (5-6 Penalty shoot-out) (MLS Playoff)
• 2024-11-02: New York City FC 3-1 FC Cincinnati (MLS Playoff)
• 2024-10-28: FC Cincinnati 1-0 New York City FC (MLS Playoff)
• 2024-10-02: New York City FC 3-2 FC Cincinnati (Major League Soccer)

These results show a balanced rivalry, with both teams securing crucial victories against each other. Notably, Cincinnati has managed to snatch a win at home, while NYCFC has found success in playoff matches and away fixtures.

Such history sets the stage for another intense clash, with both teams likely to draw on their past encounters for motivation and tactical insights.

Odds accurate as of 22/08/2025 00:33, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.