The Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati rivalry started with the 2017 US Open Cup. While Cincinnati was in the USL, in the second tier of the U.S. system, they shocked a mix of Black & Gold backups and a few starters to move on in the annual tournament.
Since then, it's been Columbus’ series with the Crew winning five of nine MLS matches. Now it’s time for the 10th MLS edition of the rivalry with FC Cincinnati hoping to jump into an MLS Cup playoff spot and a second third win against the Black & Gold all-time.