Columbus Crew vs Fc Cincinnati Picks and Predictions May 17th 2025

Rivalry Renews as East Powers Cincinnati, Columbus Clash

Saturday’s edition of the Hell Is Real derby carries more weight than usual, as FC Cincinnati visits the Columbus Crew in a battle between two of the best teams in MLS. With only two points separating the Ohio-based clubs in the Supporters’ Shield standings, this fierce rivalry could help define the midseason power balance in the Eastern Conference.

Cincinnati Riding High, But Not Content

Despite sitting atop the Supporters’ Shield standings at 9-3-1 (28 points) and winning seven of their last eight matches, FC Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan wasn’t thrilled with his team’s latest performance — a 1-0 win over Toronto FC on Wednesday.

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“Not anywhere close to a standard we expect,” Noonan said. “We know we have quick turnaround and an important game, so we’ll try to keep the mood right going into a tough matchup.”

Still, there are reasons for optimism in the Queen City. Forward Kevin Denkey, who shares the team lead in goals with seven, is quickly becoming one of the league’s most electric strikers. His dazzling solo goal against Toronto — in which he beat three defenders — showcased the talent Cincinnati was banking on when signing him this preseason.

“That was certainly the 1 v. 1 attacking moment of the year for him,” Noonan added.

For fans looking to take advantage of this red-hot rivalry, Saturday’s clash offers a prime chance to explore MLS betting picks, especially with both clubs showing signs of championship potential. Discover updated MLS picks and predictions here.

Columbus Ready for Redemption at Home

While the Crew (7-1-5, 26 points) remain one of only two MLS teams with just one loss (the other being Vancouver), they come into this one off consecutive road draws, which has allowed Cincinnati and Philadelphia to edge ahead in the East.

Still, the atmosphere will be electric at Lower.com Field, and midfielder Dylan Chambost, who leads Columbus with five assists, understands the gravity of this rivalry despite joining the Crew in July 2024.

“We know it’s an important game for our fans, for us, for the city,” Chambost said. “We know the stadium will be crowded, and we are excited to play this game. We can’t wait until Saturday.”

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The Crew are 5-1-2 in their last eight matches and haven’t lost at home in this fixture since 2022. Forward Jacen Russell-Rowe expects nothing less than a fiery encounter.

“It’s going to be an intense game,” he said. “Cincy loves to be on the front foot, and it’s a big rivalry.”

All Eyes on Hell Is Real

These two Ohio giants are more than just local rivals — they’re serious contenders for MLS supremacy in 2025. Between Denkey’s brilliance and the Crew’s home dominance, Saturday’s match is destined to be a thriller.