FC Cincinnati 2 have been named MLS NEXT Pro’s Team of the Matchweek for Matchweek 9, the league announced today. The Orange and Blue earn the team wide recognition in the league’s weekly awards following a 5-0 win against Toronto FC II this past Sunday at Scudamore Field at NKU Soccer Stadium.
A complete performance on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball earned the Orange and Blue their second win of the season, and their second consecutive win at home. It is the fourth time, first since 2024 (July 28, 2024 vs. Chicago Fire FC), that FCC 2 have scored five goals in a single match. The clean sheet performance is the second this season for the Orange and Blue.
Stefan Chirila led the way for FCC 2, scoring two goals and finding the back of the net for the first time since the Orange and Blue’s season opener against CT United FC. Dilan Hurtado, Michael Sullivan and Mathias Vazquez all scored their first goals for the club, with Hurtado and Vazquez notched their first career MLS NEXT Pro goals.
Fabian Mrozek made his fourth appearance of the season in goal against Toronto, making four saves. Mrozek has been in goal for both of the Orange and Blue’s clean sheet performances this year and has made eighteen saves to date.
A number of FC Cincinnati Academy players played significant roles in the win. Camden Sphire made his first start MLSNP start, playing 68 minutes, while U15 forward Ryan Schlotterbeck made his league debut. Schlotterbeck played 11 minutes as a second half substitute.
The Team of the Matchweek honor is the first league wide recognition for FC Cincinnati 2 in 2026. The full list of Matchweek 9 awards can be found here.
FC Cincinnati 2 return to action this Sunday, May 10, when they take on Columbus Crew II at Scudamore Field at NKU Soccer Stadium. Tickets for the match can be claimed through the FC Cincinnati App with the match also airing live on OneFootball platforms and on MLSNEXTPro.com.
