What observers say
“Really pleased with the response from the group against a very good Tigres team,” said FC Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan after his team’s impressive performance at TQL Stadium. The match, held on March 12, 2026, marked a significant moment for FC Cincinnati as they faced off against the renowned Tigres UANL in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup series.
FC Cincinnati emerged victorious with a commanding 3-0 scoreline, a result that not only boosts their confidence but also sets a strong foundation for the upcoming second leg. Kévin Denkey was the star of the night, netting two goals, while Tom Barlow contributed with another, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess. This victory is particularly sweet for Cincinnati, who had struggled to find the back of the net in their previous two MLS matches, going 180 minutes without scoring.
The match began with a pivotal moment in the seventh minute when a mistake by Tigres goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán allowed FC Cincinnati to take an early lead. Noonan emphasized the importance of that early goal, stating, “The early goal was important just for the psyche of the team.” This set the tone for the remainder of the match, as FC Cincinnati maintained control and secured a clean sheet against a Tigres side that managed only one shot on target out of eleven attempts.
As the game progressed, it became clear that FC Cincinnati was not only defending well but also capitalizing on their opportunities. With a 3-0 aggregate lead heading into the second leg, they have positioned themselves favorably to advance to the quarterfinals of the tournament. However, the challenge is far from over. Noonan acknowledged the difficulty that lies ahead, stating, “We know how challenging it’s going to be in the second leg, of course, but a lot still to go in this home and away, and I’m pleased with the starting point.”
The second leg of this matchup is scheduled for March 19, 2026, in Monterrey, Mexico, where Tigres will need to win by at least three goals to have a chance of advancing. The stakes are high, and the pressure will be on the Tigres players to perform at their best in front of their home crowd.
FC Cincinnati’s victory is a testament to their growth as a team, especially considering their previous struggles in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Historically, they had not secured a win in their first leg matches at TQL Stadium in earlier rounds, making this win a significant milestone. The community in Cincinnati is rallying behind their team, hopeful for continued success in this prestigious tournament.
As fans eagerly await the second leg, the excitement is palpable. FC Cincinnati has shown that they can compete with some of the best teams in the region, and their supporters are ready to cheer them on as they aim for a spot in the quarterfinals. The journey continues, and the Cincinnati community stands united in support of their team.
