Matchday Guide: Hell Is Real

August 25, 2022 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – FC Cincinnati News Release

FC Cincinnati host the Columbus Crew for the 10th MLS edition of the Hell is Real derby. Never has a Hell is Real matchup had larger playoff implications than Saturday night, with the Ohio rivals separated by one point in the congested Eastern Conference standings with less than 10 games to go.

A limited number of tickets remain for Saturday’s game. Visit the ticket page at fccincinnati.com/tickets, or call 513-977-KICK, to learn more.

There are plenty of fan experiences going on to get fans fired up for Hell is Real. From pre-game activations, special food and beverage options, giveaways and more, take a look below at what is going on Saturday night at TQL Stadium:

PRE-GAME ACTIVATIONS

Washington Park will be filled with free fan experiences beginning at 4:30 p.m. including:

Live music from Jet Pack Academy

Axe Throwing

Fire Eaters/Performers

Tasting from Cincinnati-based hot sauce Dude, Seriously

FC Cincinnati fans will battle Columbus Crew fans in a spicy wing eating contest presented by Wings and Rings. The contest begins on the Washington Park stage at 6 p.m. Freddy Mac from Q102 will host and MC the contest.

There will be a number of kid-friendly activities throughout the park including:

Face Paint / Balloon Art

FIFA video game station

Inflatables

Soccer activations

Sponsorship activations from UDF, Continental Tire and CTI will also be on-location in addition to Toyota vehicles on-site.

Fans can join the Supporters March to the stadium, departing Washington Park at approximately 6:25 p.m.

AS YOU ENTER

There are also a number of exciting experiences planned inside the stadium for the derby. The first 5,000 fans in the stadium will receive a Hell is Real commemorative ticket.

Fans can expect to see a decorated TQL Stadium as they enter, including the grand staircase wrapped leading to the East Plaza and a Wheat Paste Wall under the Carl & Martha Linder sign. On the East Plaza, musician Jack McGrail will be performing.

Every fan in attendance will receive an orange pom pom to help create a “ring of fire” inside TQL Stadium. Fans can also expect to see plenty of fire effects blazing on the field as kickoff approaches.

Cincinnati-based funk musician Freekbass will perform a special intro as FC Cincinnati players take the field and will perform an instrumental version of the National Anthem on guitar.

Fans should also keep an eye on The Bailey at kickoff for a special tifo for Hell is Real.

The…