FC Cincinnati‘s robust season at the gates continued over the weekend, as the team drew 24,376 fans to a match on Saturday.
That total marked a single-season record for the USL. Big attendance numbers have been a major part of the story for FC Cincinnati this season, as the team continually draws major crowds to Nippert Stadium. Regular season numbers have been the source of most its high figures–including more than 259,000 fans for USL matches–but the team has generated headlines this year through friendlies. One against Crystal Palace in July set an Ohio record by drawing more than 35,000 spectators.
Adding to the lure of Saturday’s contest was FC Cincinnati’s performance. With a 1-0 win over Orlando City B, FC Cincinnati clinched a spot in the postseason.
The organization’s success, including with the attendance, has not gone unnoticed across the soccer landscape. In fact, FC Cincinnati is frequently cited as a possible expansion entry in the MLS.
If it ever happens, a move to the MLS could be years away. For now, FC Cincinnati has provided a memorable inaugural season, and given its robust fan base a chance to see if the team can make a deep postseason run.
Image courtesy of FC Cincinnati.