Cincinnati and Miami Clash in High-Stakes MLS Cup Playoff Battle—Who Will Advance?
FC Cincinnati host Inter Miami at TQL Stadium this Sunday evening for what promises to be one of the most exciting fixtures in the MLS Cup playoffs.
The Orange and Blue have reached this stage before, making it to the conference semifinal twice previously. In contrast, Miami find themselves in new territory. The Pink and Black had never progressed beyond the opening round until this playoff campaign.
Cincinnati dominated their opponents during the regular season, but the knockout nature of the semifinals means anything can happen.
Here is Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of this crucial encounter.
What Time Does FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami Kick-Off?
FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami Head-to-Head Record (All-Time)
Most Recent Encounter: Inter Miami 0–0 FC Cincinnati (July 26, 2025)—MLS Regular Season
Recent Form (All Competitions)
Inter Miami | FC Cincinnati |
|---|---|
Inter Miami 4–0 Nashville SC - 11/8/2025 | FC Cincinnati 2–1 Columbus Crew - 11/8/2025 |
Nashville SC 2–1 Inter Miami - 11/1/2025 | Columbus Crew 4–0 FC Cincinnati - 11/2/2025 |
Inter Miami 3–1 Nashville SC - 10/24/25 | FC Cincinnati 1–0 Columbus Crew - 10/27/25 |
Nashville SC 2–5 Inter Miami - 10/18/25 | FC Cincinnati 3–0 CF Montréal - 10/18/25 |
Inter Miami 4–0 Atlanta United - 10/11/25 | Red Bull New York 0–1 FC Cincinnati - 10/4/25 |
How to Watch FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami on TV
Country | Channel |
|---|---|
USA and Worldwide | Apple TV |
FC Cincinnati Team News
FC Cincinnati are riding high after eliminating their state rivals in the opening playoff round.
The spotlight will be on the attacking triumvirate of Evander, Brenner and Kévin Denkey. Evander concluded the campaign with 18 goals and 15 assists, while Denkey netted 15 times in his debut MLS season. Brenner also found the net twice in the opening leg victory against Columbus.
Beyond their offensive firepower, Cincinnati depends on Pavel Bucha and Ender Echenique in the middle of the park. However, Echenique's availability remains uncertain for this fixture. USMNT defender Miles Robinson is expected to anchor the backline.
Matt Miazga and reserve keeper Alec Kann will both miss the encounter.
FC Cincinnati Expected XI vs. Inter Miami (3-5-2): Celentano; Hagglund, Robinson, Hadebe; Echenique, Bucha, Evander, Gidi, Engel; Denkey, Brenner.
Inter Miami Team News
Lionel Messi has been outstanding, finding the back of the net five times during the opening round series versus Nashville.
Missing out on MLS Cup would mark 2025 as only the second campaign in his illustrious career without claiming a trophy.
The primary dilemma for head coach Javier Mascherano involves the future of an out-of-form Luis Suárez. The veteran striker has endured a difficult season, and Miami performed better in their third match against Nashville while he was suspended.
Beyond the Suárez situation, central midfielders David Ruiz and Ryan Sailor remain sidelined with injuries. Fullback Ian Fray's status is uncertain following an injury sustained on international duty with Jamaica.
Inter Miami understand that when their playoff campaign concludes, so too do the careers of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. This adds extra incentive to make their postseason journey meaningful.
Inter Miami Expected Lineup
Inter Miami Expected XI vs. FC Cincinnati (4-4-2): Ríos Novo; Fray, Falcón, Allen, Alba; Allende, De Paul, Busquets, Rodríguez; Messi, Silvetti
FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami Score Prediction
FC Cincinnati can appear unstoppable one day and completely disjointed the next. While they may have gained momentum from three straight derby victories, Messi appears determined to succeed.
The legendary Argentine maintains his excellent form as Alba and Busquets dare to envision a storybook conclusion with the Herons progressing away from home.
Final Prediction: FC Cincinnati 1–3 Inter Miami