FC Cincinnati Defeats New York Red Bulls 3-0 in MLS Cup Playoffs Opener

Álvaro Barreal's two goals and Luciano Acosto's goal and assist lead FC Cincinnati to victory, while Red Bulls extend losing streak in road playoff games to six; Cincinnati sets sight on conference semifinals berth with potential win in upcoming Match 2.

Álvaro Barreal scored two goals, and Luciano Acosta added one, assisting FC Cincinnati in their 3-0 win over the New York Red Bulls in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs at TQL Stadium.
Barreal's opening goal came in the 23rd minute, latching onto a well-placed through ball from Junior Moreno and bending a one-touch shot into the net for a 1-0 lead.
Cincinnati's second goal came from Acosta, who cleverly chipped the ball into an open net from midfield in the 35th minute. His outstanding performance during the regular season, with 17 goals and 19 assists, played a significant part in Cincinnati's success.
Goalkeeper, Roman Celentano, preserved a clean sheet by making five saves -- he recorded 12 shutouts during the regular season, which were the second most in MLS.
For Cincinnati, a victory in Match 2 scheduled for the upcoming Saturday at Red Bulls Arena, will secure their berth in the conference semifinals. On the other hand, the loss extended the Red Bulls' streak of consecutive road playoff losses to six.