FC Cincinnati vs. Red Bulls: High-Priced Stars Set for MLS

FC Cincinnati vs. Red Bulls: High-Priced Stars Set for MLS Season Opener

The 2024 MLS season kicks off with two Eastern Conference contenders looking to prove they belong at the top. FC Cincinnati and the New York Red Bulls both had rollercoaster campaigns last year, and now, with big-money signings in place, they’re aiming for consistency and success in 2025.

The season opener on Saturday night at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati will be an early test for two teams that spent big in the offseason. Can Cincinnati overcome the loss of their franchise star Luciano Acosta, or will the Red Bulls build off their unexpected MLS Cup final run?

FC Cincinnati: Can New Additions Fill the Acosta Void?

For much of 2024, FC Cincinnati was among the league’s elite, winning 15 of its first 22 matches (15-4-3). But a late-season collapse (3-7-2 finish) led to a first-round playoff exit, raising questions about their ability to sustain success.

Their biggest offseason shake-up? Luciano Acosta, the club’s all-time leader in goals (54) and assists (72), was transferred to FC Dallas for $5 million-plus. His departure left a major hole in Cincinnati’s attack, but the front office wasted no time making splashy moves to reload.

FC Cincinnati soccer player in blue jersey preparing to kick the ball during a match.

Key Offseason Acquisitions:

Kevin Denkey – Signed from Cercle Brugge (Belgium) for an MLS-record $16.2 million, Denkey is expected to lead the attack.
Evander – The former Portland Timbers playmaker, who had 15 goals and 19 assists last season, was brought in for $12 million to replace Acosta’s creativity in midfield.

Both Denkey and Evander immediately showed their value, each scoring in their debut during a 4-1 CONCACAF Champions Cup victory over CF Montagua on Wednesday.

“The character of the group is very strong,” said Cincinnati coach Pat Noonan. “That gives me plenty of hope for a high ceiling and expecting even more than what we saw (Wednesday).”

Now, the challenge is translating early promise into consistent MLS success.

New York Red Bulls: Can They Build on Last Year’s Surprise Run?

The New York Red Bulls shocked many by reaching the MLS Cup final last season, even after stumbling down the stretch (1-5-3 in their last nine games). Their playoff run was fueled by defensive resilience, including three shutouts before falling 2-1 to LA Galaxy in the final.

Now, the Red Bulls enter 2025 with a new-look attack after losing forwards Dante Vanzeir and Elias Manoel and defender John Tolkin. But they’ve added a proven goal scorer in former Bayern Munich striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who joins Lewis Morgan in the attack.

New York Red Bulls players in white and red uniforms celebrating a goal on the field

Key Additions for the Red Bulls:

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting – The former Bayern Munich and PSG striker brings elite experience and is expected to be a major offensive weapon.
Emil Forsberg – A leader on and off the pitch, Forsberg believes the Red Bulls now have the belief to go all the way.

“Last year was an ‘A-ha!’ experience for the whole team,” Forsberg said. “We realized, ‘Oh, we can do it.’ Now, we want to be even better.”

What to Expect in the Opener

This season-opening battle will be an intriguing contrast of styles:

Cincinnati will try to control possession and build through Evander and Denkey, using their big-money signings to break down New York’s defense.
The Red Bulls will rely on their high-energy, pressing style and look to Choupo-Moting and Morgan to capitalize on mistakes.

Both teams are looking to start strong and prove they can be consistent contenders throughout the season. With new stars making their debuts, this matchup promises to be one of the most exciting openers in MLS.

Fc Cincinnati vs New York Red Bulls Picks and Predictions February 22nd 2025