When the 2019 Major League Soccer regular season calendar was released, Columbus Crew SC fans were all looking for the same matchup. After 23 years, the Black & Gold finally had an in-state rival in the league and the home game against FC Cincinnati would always be the most anticipated for the team’s supporters.
That day is nearly upon them as the Crew is set to host Cincinnati on Saturday at MAPFRE Stadium and the fans are not the only ones who understand and recognize the importance of the first meeting between the two Ohio sides – the so-called “Hell is Real” Derby.