FC Cincinnati is currently on the pursuit of their second Supporters’ Shield title in just three years and is poised to add to their trophy collection as they kick off their Leagues Cup 2025 campaign. Head Coach Pat Noonan expressed the team’s intentions to build on recent strong performances as they prepare for their opening match against the formidable LIGA MX side CF Monterrey at TQL Stadium on Thursday night at 7 PM ET.
Noonan emphasized the importance of leveraging their current momentum, stating, “We’re looking for progress and progress in the moment is, how do we take this most recent stretch… and take it into tomorrow in the first three games of the competition.” Cincinnati enters the tournament with a promising record of 6 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw in their last eight matches, suggesting they might be well-equipped to advance past the Round of 16—a hurdle they have struggled to overcome in previous campaigns.
In their earlier Leagues Cup appearances, Cincinnati excelled in group stages but faltered in the knockout rounds. The introduction of a new format this year—with league-specific tables—affords them another opportunity to secure a spot in the quarterfinals, as the top four teams from each league will progress forward.
Despite a setback, the team looks forward to competing without their recent signing and club-record transfer, Kévin Denkey, who is currently sidelined with a leg injury. Denkey is known for his significant contributions during his time in previous Leagues Cup matches, demonstrating his value to his new team, Cincinnati.
Cincinnati’s roster changes include the addition of Evander, a former Landon Donovan MLS MVP candidate, replacing Luciano Acosta. This strategic move aims to bolster their chances in the tournament as they face tough competition, with Monterrey being a formidable opponent featuring talents like Sergio Ramos, who commands their defense, and offensive threats like Sergio Canales and Germán Berterame.
Reflecting on the challenge ahead, Noonan acknowledged Monterrey’s playmaking capabilities, highlighting their ability to transition quickly into offensive plays. “With the ball, they’ve got playmakers all over the field… how dynamic they are moving to goal has been evident,” he noted.
As Cincinnati prepares for this crucial opener and subsequent matches against Juárez and Chivas, the team’s focus remains unwavering. Noonan reiterated their objective, stating, “It’s the start of a competition where you want to have a good performance, and we’re trying to win a game.”
This Leagues Cup journey brings hope and excitement, as Cincinnati looks to break new ground and possibly add another trophy to their cabinet amid a competitive spirit fueled by their recent successes.