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FC Cincinnati Shines and Secures a Spot in the Concacaf Champions League

By Arthur Fernandes

CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 23: Junior Moreno #93 of FC Cincinnati during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 23: Junior Moreno #93 of FC Cincinnati during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /
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FC Cincinnati made history by securing their spot in the 2024 Concacaf Champions League, solidifying themselves as an ascending force in North American soccer. The Orange and Blue’s victory over Charlotte FC last Saturday was a landmark achievement that deserves recognition and celebration.

The Concacaf Champions League, formerly known as the Champions Cup, is the stage where the best clubs in the region battle it out for the continental title. Starting in 2024, it will carry a new name, but its prestige and significance will remain undiminished. This tournament crowns the club champion of North America, Central America, and the Caribbean while also providing a qualification route to the FIFA Club World Cup.

FC Cincinnati’s journey to reach this competition is noteworthy. They qualified as one of the top two finalists in the Supporters’ Shield standings among conference champions and the MLS Cup winner. Moreover, they still have the chance to enter as the winners of the 2023 Supporters’ Shield, MLS Cup champions, or leaders of the Eastern Conference. This showcases a commitment to excellence and a determination to face off against the region’s best.

CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati celebrates his goal during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati celebrates his goal during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

This will mark FC Cincinnati’s debut in the continental competition, making their achievement all the more impressive. They are stepping onto a playing field where renowned Liga MX teams, other MLS clubs, and a Canadian club are already waiting to vie for glory.

The 2024 Concacaf Champions League promises excitement with its new knockout format and five rounds of intense matches. Of the 27 teams participating, 22 will start in the first round, and only five will survive to the round of 16. Additionally, Concacaf is heavily investing in cash prizes, making the tournament even more enticing for participating clubs.

FC Cincinnati’s achievement reflects the ongoing growth of soccer in the United States and the Concacaf region as a whole. It’s a sign that North American clubs are becoming more competitive and ready to challenge traditional teams from Central America and the Caribbean.

As we approach the thrilling 2024 edition of the Concacaf Champions League, it’s time to celebrate FC Cincinnati and root for them to represent MLS and the United States admirably. Their success serves as a reminder that North American soccer is on the rise, and the future looks bright for soccer fans in the United States and throughout the region.

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