FC Cincinnati 0-2 Columbus Crew: result and AI prediction

FC Cincinnati – Columbus Crew, MLS, Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 10:00 PM (GMT). Venue: TQL Stadium

FC Cincinnati is #9 in the table (36 pts) and Columbus Crew #13 (32 pts). FC Cincinnati averages 2.1 goals per match this season. Last 6 head-to-head meetings: FC Cincinnati 2, draws 1, Columbus Crew 3. Their last meeting, on July 25, 2026, ended Columbus Crew 2-1 FC Cincinnati. Absent for FC Cincinnati: J. Martinez, M. Robinson. Absent for Columbus Crew: W. Abou Ali, R. Camacho.

AI predicted: 2-1 · Final score: 0-2Missed

AI confidence: Medium

AI match recap

This is a derby with postseason pressure attached, and both teams have enough attacking quality to turn a single mistake into a decisive moment. Cincinnati’s home record and TQL Stadium atmosphere give them a natural platform, but their missing defensive leader is a serious problem against Columbus’s revitalised creators. The Crew have gathered momentum through their recent run, although the absences of Abou Ali and Camacho limit their depth. Expect intensity from the opening whistle, with the midfield battle around Méndez and Evander shaping the match.

Head-to-head analysis

This rivalry has produced wins for both clubs, including playoff-level intensity, rather than a stable long-term advantage for either side. Recent meetings have ranged from shutouts to open contests, reinforcing how strongly game state shapes the derby.

Injuries and absences

Robinson’s absence is the most structurally important loss because Cincinnati are missing a defender who can recover against runs in behind. Columbus are without Abou Ali and Camacho, weakening their rotation options at both ends of the pitch.

Form (last 5)

FC CincinnatiLeague position #9 · 36 ptsL W L
Columbus CrewLeague position #13 · 32 ptsW L W

FC Cincinnati vs Columbus Crew stats

FC CincinnatiColumbus Crew
Played2829
Goals scored6044
Goals conceded6847
Clean sheets25

Last meetings

  • 2026-07-25Columbus Crew 2-1 FC Cincinnati
  • 2025-11-08FC Cincinnati 2-1 Columbus Crew
  • 2025-11-02Columbus Crew 4-0 FC Cincinnati
  • 2025-10-27FC Cincinnati 1-0 Columbus Crew
  • 2025-07-12FC Cincinnati 2-4 Columbus Crew
  • 2025-05-17Columbus Crew 1-1 FC Cincinnati

Unavailable players

FC Cincinnati

J. Martinez, M. Robinson

Columbus Crew

W. Abou Ali, R. Camacho

Other MLS matches