Extratips Match Preview: FC Cincinnati vs Columbus Crew – MLS Playoffs Showdown

Welcome back to Extratips for what promises to be a fierce MLS playoff clash! FC Cincinnati welcomes Columbus Crew on November 8, 2025, at 23:00. With both teams eyeing a spot in the next round, expect drama at TQL Stadium. The bookies have FC Cincinnati as slight favorites at 2.35, with the Crew at 2.75, and a draw offered at 3.60.

Cincinnati holds home advantage but Columbus hammered them 4-0 in the last meeting, powered by an early red card for Yuya Kubo. Historically, Columbus leads the H2H with 8 wins to Cincinnati’s 5 (last 5: Columbus 3 wins, Cincinnati 2), but Cincinnati have had the upper hand at home. In recent home games, Cincinnati have won 4, lost 1; Columbus has managed 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last 5 away.

Key absences include Brad Smith and Matt Miazga for Cincinnati, with Columbus missing Mohamed Farsi and Wessam Abou Ali. Motivations are high – Cincinnati look to bounce back and leverage home support, while Columbus want to build on their dominant last performance. A classic rivalry, tactical tweaks and playoff nerves add spice. Keep an eye on early goals and tempers flaring. With firepower on both sides and both teams eager to prove a point, expect goals and drama under the lights.