NYCFC Advances Over Cincinnati in Penalty Shootout

New York City FC edged out FC Cincinnati in a penalty shootout to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals in the MLS Cup Playoffs. The match, held at Cincinnati's TQL Stadium, ended goalless in regulation, leading to a dramatic nine-round penalty shootout. NYCFC's goalkeeper Matt Freese was instrumental, making three crucial saves, while Mitja Ilenic scored the decisive penalty. Despite Cincinnati's strong season, winning the 2023 Supporters’ Shield, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities in the shootout, with Freese saving shots from Pavel Bucha, Gerardo Valenzuela, and Teenage Hadebe. The victory sets up an intriguing semifinal matchup for NYCFC against local rivals, the New York Red Bulls. Both teams had familiarized themselves well with each other's strategies, having met six times in 2024 across all competitions.