- Substitute Kévin Denkey scores 93rd-minute penalty for decisive goal
- Josh Bauer breaks 36-game scoring drought with first-half header
- Cincinnati records first comeback win against Nashville since 2022
- Both teams now tied at 10 points in Eastern Conference
GEODIS Park witnessed one of MLS's most electrifying finishes this season as FC Cincinnati stunned Nashville SC 2-1 through Kévin Denkey's ice-cold penalty conversion seven minutes into stoppage time. The result marks Cincinnati's first victory when trailing at halftime since August 2023, showcasing their improved mental resilience under new management.
Defensive specialist Josh Bauer opened the scoring against expectations in the 39th minute, capitalizing on a misplayed clearance to notch his second career MLS goal. The 26-year-old center back has now doubled his offensive output from the previous two seasons combined, signaling potential tactical adjustments in Nashville's set-piece strategies.
Cincinnati responded immediately through Brazilian midfielder Evander Ferreira, who dribbled past three defenders before slotting home his fourth goal of the campaign. Ferreira's 43rd-minute equalizer continued his trend of clutch performances, with 80% of his career MLS goals directly impacting match outcomes.
Goalkeeper Roman Celantano proved instrumental in keeping Cincinnati alive, making seven saves including a spectacular double stop against Hany Mukhtar in the 68th minute. His counterpart Joe Willis made four crucial interventions but couldn't anticipate Denkey's panenka-style penalty following Walker Zimmerman's costly challenge.
Industry Insight: MLS substitute scorers have increased by 22% this season compared to 2023, reflecting league-wide emphasis on squad rotation amid congested schedules. Cincinnati's decision to deploy Denkey as a second-half specialist aligns with this tactical shift, with 60% of his career goals now coming after the 70th minute.
Regional Analysis: Midwestern clubs have recorded 18 stoppage-time winners this season – 35% more than other regions. This trend reflects both the intense regional rivalries and the impact of climate conditions on late-game endurance during early-season matches.
With both teams now tied at 3-2-1 records, this result could prove pivotal in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Nashville will look to rebound against Charlotte FC's leaky defense, while Cincinnati faces a stern test against the Revolution's league-best home record.