New York City Down Cincinnati To Keep MLS Cup Dream Alive

New York City FC clinched a spot in the Eastern Conference final on Sunday, defeating FC Cincinnati 2-1 in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs at Yankee Stadium.

Goals from Heber and Maxi Moralez helped NYCFC overcome an early deficit and advance to the next round, where they will face the Philadelphia Union.

Cincinnati took an early lead through Brenner in the 18th minute, but Heber equalized for NYCFC just before halftime.

Moralez then scored the winning goal in the 75th minute, sending NYCFC to their first Eastern Conference final since 2019.

NYCFC will now face the Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference final on Sunday, October 30th.

NYCFC's Victory Was A Team Effort

NYCFC's victory was a team effort, with several players making key contributions.

Heber scored the equalizer and Moralez scored the winner, but other players also played important roles.

Sean Johnson made several key saves in goal, while Alexander Callens and Maxime Chanot were solid in defense.

Cincinnati's Loss Was Disappointing

Cincinnati's loss was disappointing, but they can take solace in the fact that they had a successful season.

They finished fourth in the Eastern Conference and reached the playoffs for the first time in their history.

Brenner scored a goal in the loss, and he finished the season with 18 goals, which was second-most in MLS.