🚨 Cincinnati take game-one of playoff classic with Columbus

The MLS Cup Playoffs are truly in full swing as we have more action from both the Eastern and Western Conferences this evening.

Here is what has gone down in Cincinnati and Minnesota so far...

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Scorers: Denkey 78'

FC Cincinnati took game-one of the 'Hell is Real' playoff series with Columbus Monday evening.

It's been a highly anticipated series between the two bitter Ohio rivals, but the opening salvo went to Pat Noonan's side.

It was a fascinating first 80 minutes despite the goalless scoreline, but the deadlock was broken by Cincinnati's marquee winter signing, Kevin Denkey .

– Tuesday, 28 October 2025

A late Columbus push was held off by the host as they secured the crucial opening-game win.

Attention will shift to Columbus for game-two next weekend.

📸 Chris Carter - 2025 Getty Images

FC CincinnatiColumbusKevin DenkeyLate WinnerMLS Cup Playoffs