It’s a rivalry renewed in Ohio as the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati come together for another edition of the Hell Is Real Derby.
The Columbus Crew currently hold the series lead with a 4-2-3 (W-L-T) record. FC Cincinnati, who have only beaten Columbus one time in league play, are looking to continue their good run of form while Columbus — who are also doing well with seven unbeaten — know that this match is important not only for the club, but for the city.
What is each team looking to accomplish? The answer is easy. It’s three points. However, one team needsd it more and that is Columbus.
With the Black & Gold being one point off of a playoff spot, and two places below Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference Standings, Caleb Porter and his men are looking to remain in the mix of the playoff picture.
For the visitors, on the other hand, this is their best start in their young MLS history. Currently sitting in sixth place, the climb continues for the Orange & Blue as the club looks to spoil home field advantage from their central Ohio counterparts.
Team news – Injuries & Suspensions
Columbus: Artur (R Lower Leg) and Milos Degenek (R Thigh) are listed as questionable.
Cincinnati: Sergio Santos (Leg) is questionable. Ronald Matarrita (Ankle Surgery), Dominique Badge (Leg), Junior Moreno (Leg) and Luciano Acosta (Suspended) are listed as out.
“For me, this is the biggest game of the season. This is the one you highlight on the calendar,” said Porter when asked about where this matchup ranks among his time coaching between Portland and Columbus.
“This is a derby between two teams that are fighting for playoff position. We have a chance to go over them in the standings, or obviously they have the chance to go further away from us.”
Porter also mentioned that this game is pivotal. “It’s a fight between two cities, for bragging rights. And that’s why they call it ‘Hell Is Real’ because whoever is on the wrong end of the result, you feel like you’re in Hell.”
Fans can catch the match on Fox Sports 1 (FS1) at 7:30pm.
