FC Cincinnati faces a critical juncture as they prepare for their May 16 clash against San Diego FC, following a tough defeat at the hands of Lionel Messi and Inter Miami. The match exposed persistent issues that have plagued the team all season: defensive lapses and a lack of continuity on the pitch.
From the early moments of the season, Cincinnati's backline has struggled to find its rhythm. In their opener against Atlanta United at TQL Stadium, defender Nick Hagglund showed flashes of promise, heading the ball on goal and pushing forward. But individual efforts haven't been enough to shore up a defense that has looked vulnerable against quick transitions—a weakness Inter Miami ruthlessly exploited.
Injuries have only compounded the problem. Midfielder Evander was seen reaching for his calf during the Atlanta match, an early sign of the physical toll this campaign has taken. The training ground at Mercy Health Training Center has been a revolving door of new faces trying to gel, including offseason additions Bryan Ramirez, Tom Barlow, and Kyle Smith. Smith, a La Salle graduate, made his club debut in a dominant 4-0 Concacaf Champions Cup win over O&M FC, but translating that form to league play has been a challenge.
Kevin Denkey, who also scored in that Champions Cup victory, has been a bright spot in attack, but the team's 1-0 loss to Minnesota United in late February highlighted how isolated the forwards can become when the midfield fails to connect. Miles Robinson, often tasked with organizing the backline, was seen surveying the field in frustration during that match—a scene that has become all too familiar.
Off the pitch, there's been positive energy: TQL Stadium unveiled its 2026 food selections with local flair, and The Bailey section continues to bring passion with flags and chants. But on the field, the product needs to catch up. As Cincinnati heads to San Diego, the question isn't just about stopping Messi—it's about whether they can finally build the consistency needed to compete in a stacked MLS Eastern Conference.