The Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati clash in the Hell is Real Derby on Sunday, July 17 at 7:30 PM ET at Lower.com Field. This rivalry match has major Eastern Conference playoff implications, with FCC in sixth place (27 points) and Columbus in seventh (26 points).

Recent Form:

• Both teams drew 2-2 in their last matches on Wednesday
• Columbus has scored 7 goals in their last 4 games
• Cincinnati is unbeaten in 6 straight matches

Key Players:

• Columbus: Cucho Hernandez (3 goals in 2 games), Lucas Zelarayan (4 goals), Derrick Etienne Jr. (team-leading 5 goals)
• Cincinnati: Brandon Vazquez (10 goals), Luciano Acosta (returning from suspension)

Head-to-Head:

• Columbus leads all-time series 4-1-3 since 2019
• Last year: Columbus won 3-2 at home, 2-2 draw in Cincinnati
• High-scoring rivalry averaging 4 goals per match in last 3 meetings

Betting Odds:

• Columbus: -130
• Cincinnati: +300
• Draw: +265
• Total Goals Over/Under 2.5: -135/+105

Key Factors:

• Columbus regains captain Jonathan Mensah in defense
• Cincinnati welcomes back midfielders Acosta and Cruz
• Both teams have been stronger on the road this season
• Recent history suggests goals will be scored

Prediction: Expect an intense, high-scoring derby match between two evenly matched teams fighting for playoff position. The return of key players for both sides should lead to quality chances and multiple goals.

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