July 5, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS)
FC Cincinnati News Release
In a matchup between the two top clubs in the MLS Supporters’ Shield table, FC Cincinnati will host Inter Miami CF to TQL Stadium Saturday night in a match that will shake up the table regardless of outcome.
With both clubs coming off midweek road victories, FC Cincinnati enter the match with the slight advantage in terms of availability. While recent injuries to the defensive core have left FCC Head Coach Pat Noonan looking for answers, the return of Miles Robinson has revitalized the group and provided new options to lean on in important moments.
“He’s a strong player and wants to help our group,” Noonan said of Robinson Friday morning after describing the defender’s performance as excellent on Wednesday night. “I think we’ll rely on centrally but there’s also scenarios where we’ve seen Kipp (Keller) in there, so it’s just trying to find the strongest group and then find consistency…but I do think in this moment, him being central is going to be beneficial for the group as a whole.”
FC Cincinnati have, in the past, never shied away from big moments and important matches. Oftentimes raising their performance and quality to the brighter lights of big matches. Results have always fallen their way, but matches against CF Monterrey in the Concacaf Champions Cup and the noted Hell is Real rivalry match with Columbus Crew have been some of the club’s best performances this season. Saturday night against the top of the table Miami side, who only sits there because of an extra game played, provides the next opportunity.
“This was a game that was always going to be talked about,” Noonan said of the challenge. “Both groups are living up to expectations and knowing the timing of it, knowing we’re gonna see him again at the end of August… So based on where both teams are we’ve talked about the implications of it.”
“We want to be at the top of the league. We want to be at the top of the conference when the season ends and be playing in front of our home fans. To do that, you have to win games like this, and I think (our guys) understand that.This is going to be a meaningful game.”
For FC Cincinnati defender DeAndre Yedlin, the reunion with his old club may place him in front of familiar faces, but the task at hand remains clear.
“I’m excited to play against my former teammates. I’ve never played against those guys before,” Yedlin added Friday morning. “It’ll be a good first experience for…
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