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FC Cincinnati seeks to break records on the road against a DC United in crisis

FC Cincinnati continue their winning run away from home, looking for a crucial win against DC United in the nation's capital

By Izabelle Franca

FC Cincinnati midfielder Malik Pinto (26) and D.C. United defender Matti Peltola (4) compete for possession in the second half of an MLS soccer match, Sunday, March 10, 2024, at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati.
FC Cincinnati midfielder Malik Pinto (26) and D.C. United defender Matti Peltola (4) compete for possession in the second half of an MLS soccer match, Sunday, March 10, 2024, at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati. / Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY
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FC Cincinnati are proving indigestible visitors in the MLS, with an away performance that has left opponents stunned, with eight wins, one draw and just one defeat. The next challenge is DC United, in the heart of the US capital, where the Orange and Blue will be looking to continue their impressive run.

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Under the leadership of coach Pat Noonan, the Orange and Blue have not only established themselves as a force at home, but have also become a nightmare for opponents in their own arenas. Noonan's philosophy is clear: play to win, regardless of the venue. "We're not looking to drastically change the way we play. We're not looking to sit back when we go on the road and absorb. But there will always be moments in the game to defend well," said Noonan.

With 25 points won on the road this season, the team is on course to set a modern record for points away from home. Victory over DC United, a traditionally tricky opponent, would be another milestone on that journey. The last time the teams met, DC United managed a goalless draw at the TQL Stadium, but now, with growing confidence and form, FC Cincinnati are determined to come away with the win.

DC United, coached by Troy Lesesne, brought the grit and frustrating tactics of the New York Red Bulls style. However, the absence of their top scorer, Christian Benteke, suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card and a red card, represents a significant advantage for the Orange and Blue. Benteke leads DC United in goals and is a dominant presence in the air, with 14 goals and 265 aerial duels won. Without him, DC United will have to find other ways to threaten Cincinnati's solid defense.

Noonan's strategy has been to focus on a compact defense and take advantage of attacking opportunities with players like Luciano Acosta, who has experience against his former club and knows how to exploit their weaknesses. "I think the guys have, I don't want to say they've embraced it, but they recognize the importance of not being in control of games and knowing how to defend the area to stay in games to give you guys like Lucho opportunities to make a play and change the moment and the result," Noonan explained.

While DC United struggle to get back to the form they had at the start of the season, FC Cincinnati continue their relentless pursuit of wins and records. The team's confidence and consistency are palpable, and every game is treated with the seriousness of a final. Noonan emphasized the importance of focusing on the game against DC United before thinking about the top-of-the-table clash against Inter Miami CF at the weekend.

The match against DC United is more than just another away game. It's an opportunity for FC Cincinnati to show that their dominance is no fluke and that they're ready to take on any opponent, anywhere. If they can maintain the level of performance they've been showing, there's no doubt that the Orange and Blue will continue to break records and solidify their position as one of the top teams in the MLS this season.

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