Cincinnati vs Querétaro Prediction: FC Cincinnati is predicted to win 1-0 against Querétaro FC in their upcoming Leagues Cup clash.
The Leagues Cup heats up as FC Cincinnati prepares to host Querétaro FC in a pivotal Group East 1 matchup. With both teams eyeing advancement, this encounter promises high-stakes action at TQL Stadium.
Match Preview
FC Cincinnati enters the fray after a string of challenging MLS fixtures, looking to assert dominance on home turf. The Orange and Blue aim to leverage their impressive home record, having lost only five league games at TQL Stadium this season.
Querétaro FC, fresh off a penalty shootout defeat against New York City FC, seeks redemption. Los Gallos Blancos displayed resilience in their opening match, holding NYCFC to a goalless draw before succumbing in the shootout.
Cincinnati vs Querétaro Lineups and Formation
Predicted FC Cincinnati Lineup (4-3-3): Keller, Louro, Yedlin, Acosta, Kubo, Kelsy, Boupendza, Murphy, Nwobodo, Orellano, Bucha.
Predicted Querétaro FC Lineup (4-4-2): Perlaza, Escamilla, Medina, Rio, Sosa, Rodriguez, Vazquez, Allison, Lertora, Loba, Oritz.
Cincinnati’s fluid 4-3-3 formation, spearheaded by the dynamic Luciano Acosta, will aim to exploit spaces in Querétaro’s defense. The visitors are likely to adopt a more conservative 4-4-2 approach, relying on quick counterattacks.
Key Players to Watch
FC Cincinnati:
- Luciano Acosta: The midfield maestro’s creativity will be crucial in unlocking Querétaro’s defense.
- Brandon Vazquez: Coming off a strong MLS season, Vazquez’s goal-scoring prowess could be the difference-maker.
Querétaro FC:
- Angel Sepúlveda: The experienced forward’s ability to hold up play and create chances will be vital for the visitors.
- Kevin Escamilla: His midfield presence and distribution skills will be key in controlling the tempo.
Injured and Unavailable Players
FC Cincinnati and Querétaro FC both face some player absences for this crucial Leagues Cup match. Here’s a breakdown of the players who may miss out:
FC Cincinnati:
- Alec Kann (goalkeeper) – Doubtful due to a hip issue
- Malik Pinto (defender) – Questionable with an ankle problem
- Nick Hagglund (defender) – Out with a leg injury
- Matt Miazga (defender) – Out for the season with a leg injury
- Miles Robinson (defender) – Unavailable due to Olympic duty with the US national team
Querétaro FC:
Rubio Rubin (forward) – Questionable after sustaining a knock while on loan
These absences could significantly impact both teams’ strategies and formations for the match. FC Cincinnati, in particular, may need to adjust their defensive lineup given the multiple injuries in their backline.
Where to Watch Cincinnati vs Querétaro Live?
Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. The match kicks off at 12:00 AM UTC on August 2, 2024, at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Cincinnati vs. Querétaro Live Streaming and TV Schedule (Other Countries)
- USA: MLS Season Pass
- Canada: MLS Season Pass
- UK: MLS Season Pass
- Germany: MLS Season Pass
- France: MLS Season Pass
- Spain: MLS Season Pass
- Italy: MLS Season Pass
- Australia: MLS Season Pass
- Japan: MLS Season Pass
- Brazil: MLS Season Pass
Form Guide
FC Cincinnati: L-L-L-W-W
Querétaro FC: L-L-L-L-L-D
Cincinnati’s recent form in MLS has been shaky, with three consecutive losses. However, their home record remains strong. Querétaro’s struggles have been more pronounced, with a winless run stretching back several matches across all competitions.
Head-to-Head
This marks the first-ever meeting between FC Cincinnati and Querétaro FC, adding an element of unpredictability to the encounter.
Standings
In the Leagues Cup Group East 1:
- New York City FC: 1 point
- Querétaro FC: 1 point
- FC Cincinnati: 0 points (1 game in hand)
Who Will Win?
Given FC Cincinnati’s home advantage and superior recent form, they enter as favorites. However, Querétaro’s defensive solidity, as demonstrated against NYCFC, could pose challenges.
Cincinnati vs Querétaro Prediction: FC Cincinnati 1-0 Querétaro FC
Cincinnati’s attacking prowess, led by Acosta and Vazquez, should prove too much for Querétaro’s defense. However, expect the visitors to put up a fight and potentially keep the scoreline tight.
This clash promises to be a fascinating encounter between two teams with contrasting styles and ambitions. As the Leagues Cup progresses, both sides will be eager to secure a positive result and boost their chances of advancing from the group stage.
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