By Layla Tiell, Newswire Intern

After a statement win in the first round of playoffs, FC Cincinnati (FCC) will turn its attention to the Eastern Conference semifinals against Inter Miami this Sunday, Nov. 23.  

As both teams prepare for an intense game, fans are excited to see how FCC will perform against a squad led by Lionel Messi. With a finals spot on the line, FCC fans are filled with anticipation and are eager to see if FCC is able to push through. 

Even students who are not from Cincinnati and are just here for school have taken part in the fun of Major League Soccer (MLS).

“I’m from Milwaukee and became a fan, especially when they moved from USL (United Soccer League) to MLS a few years ago,” first-year psychology major Christian Schlidt said. “MLS regular season can feel longer and boring, but with the tournaments they have in the summer, it was entertaining enough to keep me engaged.”

This team has created quite an opportunity for themselves. They claimed the second seed spot with a 20-5-9 record at the end of regular season games. Inter Miami is not far behind with its third seed standing. 

FCC’s season showcased steady performances in both league and conference play. They were able to keep a spot near the top in conference standings pretty consistently, showing the improvement in possession, finishing and overall organization from last year. 

They have recorded key wins at home, such as a 3-0 match against Inter Miami in early July, as well as many on-the-road victories against Real Salt Lake, Orlando City and New England Revolution. 

To continue the excitement, FCC claimed the win in an exciting best-of-three game series for the first round of playoffs. The first game took place at TQL Stadium, where forward Kevin Denkey secured a 1-0 win off a cross from forward Ender Echenique. Before that, it was a scoreless match for most of the game. The Crew never managed to level the score. 

Hopes were high for the team heading into the second game, where the result was nowhere near that of the last. The Crew hung on tight to their spot in the playoffs, beating FC Cincinnati 4-0, meaning whoever came out on top next would advance to the semifinals. 

A tough battle between the two teams in their final game of the best-of-three series, just as expected. Ultimately, FC secured their advancing spot with an exciting 2-1 victory, ending the Crew’s season. 

“It was an exciting series that was back and forth,” first-year exploratory major Brayden Spriggs said. “I think it will be a challenge, but they have a shot.” 

One player who has stood out this season is attacking midfielder Evander. He is someone to keep an eye out for in the next round. As FCC’s leading scorer, as well as number one in assists, he has been able to keep that status as one of the league’s superior midfielders. 

This Sunday will be a test for him, as fans will see in actuality what he has brought to the team this year. It will also be a challenge for the entire FC club, as they will have to prove themselves as well. 

With momentum on their side, FC Cincinnati will now face a bigger challenge. As Sunday approaches, the anticipation only grows, both in Cincinnati and on Xavier’s campus. Fans are waiting to see whether this team can extend its postseason run and secure a place in the Eastern Conference finals.