FC Cincinnati’s playoff journey came to an end on Saturday in a heartbreaking fashion, as they fell to New York City FC in a penalty shootout after a scoreless draw in the decisive third game of their best-of-three series.

Nigerian players Chidozie Awaziem and Obinna Nwobodo were among those who faced disappointment as their team was eliminated following a tense showdown.

Cincinnati entered the playoffs with strong momentum, finishing third in the regular season with an impressive 59 points.

In the best-of-three series, they took the lead by winning the opening match on October 28. However, NYCFC, the No. 6 seed, bounced back with a victory on November 2, setting up a decisive game in Cincinnati on Saturday.

FC Cincinnati players in a huddle. Photo | IG

The third game ended in a scoreless draw, pushing the series to a dramatic nine-round penalty shootout.

In front of a packed stadium of 22,487 fans, Cincinnati fell short as NYCFC clinched the victory, securing their spot in the next playoff round.

Obinna Nwobodo, who played a crucial role in the midfield, was substituted just before the penalty shootout, with Gerardo Valenzuela taking his place.

When it came to penalties, Cincinnati faced struggles, with Chidozie Awaziem among the four players who missed their shots.

Awaziem’s attempt went off-target, while shots from Pavel Bucha, Valenzuela, and Teenage Hadebe were denied by NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese.

The defeat was a tough blow for FC Cincinnati, who had high hopes for a deep playoff run after an impressive regular season.