FC Cincinnati Embarks on Champions Cup Journey, Aiming to Break Through on the International Stage
For the third consecutive year, FC Cincinnati’s competitive season begins on the road, this time in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, as they face O&M FC in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One. The Orange and Blue are looking to translate their MLS success – including the 2023 Supporters’ Shield and a near miss in 2025 – to the continental stage.
A History of Road Success in the Champions Cup
FC Cincinnati boasts a perfect 2-0-0 record in opening matches of the Champions Cup, having previously defeated Cavalier FC (2024) and FC Motagua (2025). They’ve successfully navigated the first leg on the road in those instances, returning to TQL Stadium to close out the series. This year, they’ll aim to continue that trend against O&M FC.
O&M FC: A New Challenger
O&M FC makes its debut in the Concacaf Champions Cup after finishing as runners-up in the 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup. The club, nicknamed “La Universidad” due to its connection with Dominican University O & M, qualified for the tournament by reaching the final of the Caribbean Cup. While their recent form in the Liga Dominicana de Futbol hasn’t been ideal, they’ll be eager to make a strong impression on their home turf.
Key Players to Watch
FC Cincinnati midfielder Evander, who joined the club shortly before the start of last year’s Champions Cup campaign, will be looking to build on his experience with a full preseason under his belt. For O&M FC, Anyelo Gómez has stepped up as a key offensive threat following the departure of last season’s top scorer, Frantzety Herard. Sergio Paredes, a veteran with the club, also provides a goal-scoring threat.
Coach Noonan’s Perspective
FC Cincinnati Head Coach Pat Noonan acknowledges the growing expectation surrounding the club’s participation in the Champions Cup. “I think now there’s an expectation to be in this competition each year, which is certainly a sign of the growth of the club,” he stated. He also emphasized the need to capitalize on home-field advantage in the second leg, something they haven’t been able to do in previous Champions Cup runs.
Looking Ahead: A Potential Rematch with Tigres UANL
If FC Cincinnati advances past O&M FC, they could face a rematch with Liga MX powerhouse Tigres UANL, who eliminated them in the same round last season. The winner of this series will advance to the Round of 16 and face Tigres UANL.
Match Details & How to Watch
FC CINCINNATI vs. O&M FC – Wednesday, February 18, 2026 – 8 p.m. ET – Estadio Cibao Fútbol Club
TV: FOX Sports 2 (English) and TUDN (Spanish)
Stream: FOX Sports App, FOXSports.com (English) and ViX (Spanish)
Did you know?
Nine MLS clubs are competing in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, with the ultimate goal of securing a spot in the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
FAQ
Q: What is the Concacaf Champions Cup?
A: It’s a continental club tournament featuring the top teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Q: Where is the second leg of this series being played?
A: At FC Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium on February 25.
Q: Has FC Cincinnati ever won the Concacaf Champions Cup?
A: No, their best result to date has been reaching the Round of 16.
Q: Who is O&M FC’s key player?
A: Anyelo Gómez has emerged as a key offensive player for O&M FC.
Don’t miss the action as FC Cincinnati begins its 2026 campaign! Follow along for updates and analysis throughout the tournament.
