CINCINNATI - FC Cincinnati kicked off its 2025 MLS season with excitement, securing a narrow 1-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls at TQL Stadium on Saturday night. The win was celebrated thanks to striker Kévin Denkey, who found the net in the 70th minute, marking his debut goal for the team.
Denkey, who joined the squad this offseason from Belgian side Cercle Brugge for an MLS-record transfer fee of $16.2 million, displayed his potential, heading the ball past Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel following an assist from DeAndre Yedlin. This match showcased Denkey's ability to capitalize on key moments, something FC Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan highlighted when he remarked, "I think you see somebody who can be quiet for stretches of the game but just needs a moment to score a goal." Noonan added, "There’s a lot more out there for him, and that's pretty scary because he’s got a couple of goals in the last two games."
The victory marks Cincinnati's second success over the Red Bulls at home, improving their all-time record against them to 2-3-2 in season openers. goalie Roman Celentano was instrumental for Cincinnati, making three timely saves, all occurring within the second half. Before the match heated up, neither team managed to register a shot on goal until Celentano first showcased his skills against Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting's header.
Throughout the match, the intensity rose, with Celentano executing saves against attempts by both Choupo-Moting and defender Alexander Hack. His impressive performance was highlighted by stopping Choupo-Moting's right-footed strike from outside the box, solidifying his role as Cincinnati's defensive anchor on this remarkable night.
One of the club's significant challenges this season involves overcoming the departure of former league MVP Luciano Acosta, who has joined FC Dallas. The expectations are high for newcomers like Denkey and fellow midfielder Evander Da Silva Ferreira, who previously displayed his scoring prowess with the Portland Timbers. Noonan is optimistic about the offensive potential with Denkey and Evander stepping up, especially coming off their performances, including Cincinnati's midweek 4-1 triumph over FC Montagua.
The New York Red Bulls, who advanced to the MLS Cup Final last season, come off this opening match with history on their side as they previously boasted a strong record against Cincinnati at home with four wins and one draw before this encounter. Their last regular season game ended with just 47 points, the fewest ever recorded for any team reaching the title match.
Red Bulls head coach Gerhard Struber is eager to bounce back as his team faces Nashville SC next. With Cincinnati continuing their busy schedule, they are set to travel to play Philadelphia Union this coming Saturday, raising anticipation for how the team can build upon this initial win.
Cincinnati's faithful supporters celebrated the team's home season opener, embracing the excitement of new players and the energy of the season's beginning. With Denkey and Celentano as standout performers, the Orange and Blue are setting their eyes on what lies beyond this opening victory.