New York City vs Cincinnati Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

The first leg was a complete thriller from both sides.

After a narrow 1-0 loss in the first leg against FC Cincinnati, New York City are now set to face them in the decider game at the Citi Field as a win here for the host will set them battle out each other again in the third game of the best-of-three series of the MLS playoffs.

New York City FC have to be at their brilliant best to turn around after putting up a poor show in the first leg. The Pigeons are fortunate to see the lead to just one goal due to some poor finishing from the visitors. Nick Cushing knows his team have a fair amount of chance to beat their opponents if they can take on them from the very first minute and stay compact at the back. 

FC Cincinnati delivered a top-notch performance in the first leg but were laid down by their poor finishing in front of the goal. The attacking trio of Luciano Acosta, Yuya Kubo, and Luca Orellano were a delight to watch as their linkup play and movements caused New York City’s backline plenty of problems.

See you in Queens, Celestes. pic.twitter.com/bbyzykc1dB

— New York City FC (@newyorkcityfc) October 29, 2024

Pat Noonan will feel his side were unlucky after also hitting the woodwork. However, the real test will be now as a victory here will see them face either the Colorado Rapids or New York Red Bulls in the next playoff game.

Kick-Off:

Saturday, 2 November 2024 at 10:00 PM UK

Sunday, 3 November 2024 at 2:30 AM IST

Location: Citi Field

Form:

New York City FC (in all competitions): W-W-W-L-L

FC Cincinnati (in all competitions): L-L-L-W-W

Players to Watch

Santiago Rodriguez (⁠New York City)

Santiago Rodriguez was nowhere near his best in the first leg and will be disappointed to not level the score after missing a good chance in the final minutes of the game. Rodriguez is one of the few players on the team who can turn the tie around and will have to be at his best in this game. After scoring 12 goals for the team this season while providing another six assists, this is now the platform for him to be decisive again. 

That Argentine connection 🇦🇷🥹 pic.twitter.com/YyFZ0Ow2mk

— FC Cincinnati (@fccincinnati) October 29, 2024

Luciano Acosta (Cincinnati)

Luciano Acosta was a constant menace for New York City FC in the first leg constantly toying up with their defence with his slick movements, deft touches, and through balls. He also provided the assist for Yamil Asad’s decisive goal with a fine cross. Acosta who has racked up some unbelievable numbers this season will be disappointed to have only one assist in the game after creating several chances for the team. 

Match Facts

• The first leg ended in a 1-0 victory for FC Cincinnati
• New York City have failed to keep clean sheets in 14 games
• New York City FC and FC Cincinnati have not drawn any of their last seven games against each other

New York City FC vs FC Cincinnati: Betting tips and odds

• Tip 1: Luca Orellano to score a goal anytime– 21/10 with bet365
• Tip 2: FC Cincinnati to win this game – 2/1 with William HILL
• Tip 3: Both teams to score in this game– 4/9 with sky bet

Injury & Team News

New York City FC will miss Malachi Jones for this crucial clash after suffering a leg injury. Also, Tayvon Gray is suspended after picking up a red card in the first leg. 

FC Cincinnati will be without three players for this game. Centre-backs Matt Miazga and Nick Hagglund are dealing with leg injuries, while goalkeeper Alec Kann is out with a hip injury.

Head to Head

Total Matches – 15

New York City FC – 7

FC Cincinnati – 6

Draws – 2

Predicted Lineup

New York City FC predicted lineup (4-3-3):

Freese (GK); Ilenic, Martins, Risa, O’Toole; Parks, Perea, Sands; Wolf, Martinez, Rodriguez

FC Cincinnati predicted lineup (3-4-1-2):

Celentano (GK); Awaziem, Robinson, Hadebe; Yedlin, Bucha, Nwobodo, Asad; Acosta; Orellano, Kubo

Match Prediction for New York City FC vs FC Cincinnati

The first leg was all about FC Cincinnati who will be disappointed to be heading into this game with a one-goal advantage. The home team will now have to raise their tempo and create more chances to turn around the tie. However, we expect Cincinnati to secure the victory and move to the next round. 

Prediction: ⁠New York City FC 1-2 FC Cincinnati

Telecast for New York City FC vs FC Cincinnati

Apple TV will livestream the game.

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