FC Cincinnati won by yet another one-goal margin in their final away match of the regular season, despite the entirety of it being spent in their own half. It was product over process for Noonan’s side—a recurring theme for ′25.

FIRST HALF

There was no difference in the offense and midfield for Noonan’s lineup, aside from Engel being shifted up to left wing-back. It was the back three that changed: Hadebe would replace the aforementioned LWB at LCB, while Powell would be at RCB instead of Hagglund. 

In the early minutes, both sides were attempting to play on the front foot. A few early half chances occurred at either end.

12’ GOAL: A lofted pass from Brenner was touched in-stride by Denkey. He took it himself from outside of the box—even with options out wide—and put a power shot into the top corner. It was a screamer of a goal to give the visitors the lead.

As soon as Cincinnati took the lead, they parked the bus. Every player from the Red Bulls were allowed to occupy their half and pass it around the box to look for a chance. 

25’ SHOT: A corner...