Overview

• Yamil Asad scored in the 51st minute, assisted by Luciano Acosta, marking Asad's first career playoff goal.
• Roman Celentano kept a clean sheet for FC Cincinnati, making two crucial saves during the match.
• New York City FC's Tayvon Gray was sent off in stoppage time, complicating their efforts for a comeback.
• FC Cincinnati will aim to close out the best-of-three series in Game 2, scheduled for Saturday in New York.
• Despite a strong start, NYCFC struggled defensively in the second half, with goalkeeper Matt Freese making five saves.