WASHINGTON — FC Cincinnati couldn't have asked for much more from its two matches against D.C. United this week. The Orange and Blue completed the sweep Saturday night with a 2-0 road victory at Audi Field, collecting six crucial points in four days and giving their playoff hopes a major boost.
After defeating D.C. United 2-1 at TQL Stadium on Wednesday, Cincinnati followed with a shutout victory on the road. The two wins move FCC to 42 points with three regular-season matches remaining, putting the club in a much better position in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff race.
Evander opened the scoring in the 35th minute with an impressive right-footed shot from outside the penalty area. The Brazilian midfielder sent the ball into the upper-left corner, with Pavel Bucha providing the assist and Tom Barlow contributing to the buildup.
Cincinnati carried the 1-0 advantage into halftime after a competitive opening 45 minutes. D.C. United created several opportunities, but goalkeeper Roman Celentano made saves on attempts from Jackson Hopkins and Brandon Servania, while the defense blocked several other shots.
The Orange and Blue wasted little time adding to their advantage after halftime. In the 52nd minute, Evander turned provider, setting up Barlow for a right-footed finish from the center of the box. Bucha also contributed to the play, giving Cincinnati a 2-0 lead.
The second goal gave Cincinnati some breathing room, and the defense handled the remainder of the match. D.C. United continued pushing forward, but the Orange and Blue blocked several attempts and prevented the home side from finding a way back.
Cincinnati's defensive effort was very encouraging after a season of inconsistent performances on that end of the field. Teenage Hadebe and Nick Hagglund helped anchor the back line, while Celentano made the saves needed to secure the clean sheet.
D.C. United generated late pressure once they started to press a man forward, including multiple corner kicks in stoppage time, but Cincinnati held firm. Gerardo Valenzuela blocked a dangerous Kimito Nono attempt in the 94th minute, helping preserve the shutout.
For a Cincinnati team fighting to stay above the Eastern Conference playoff line, six points against the same opponent in four days is a huge result. The Orange and Blue have struggled to find consistency this season, but they took advantage of an important opportunity when they needed it most.
Evander had a hand in both goals, Barlow contributed a goal and an assist, and the defense delivered a shutout. Cincinnati now has some momentum heading into the final three matches of its regular season.
What's Next
FC Cincinnati remains on the road Wednesday, October 28, when it faces Inter Miami CF. The Orange and Blue will look to extend their two-match winning streak and continue their push toward the MLS Cup Playoffs before returning home to face the Philadelphia Union on October 31.
