The Hell is Real derby, a highly anticipated annual event, is back, igniting the passion of soccer fans across Ohio. This intense rivalry between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew has rapidly evolved into one of the most fiercely contested matchups in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since FC Cincinnati’s debut in 2019, challenging Columbus Crew’s long-held status as Ohio’s premier MLS team, the derby has captured the hearts and minds of supporters. With both teams currently dominating the Eastern Conference standings, the upcoming clash promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
This article delves into the rich history of the Hell is Real derby, examining key moments, memorable matches, and the overall impact of this captivating rivalry on the landscape of American soccer. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a marquee event, we’ll explore the factors that have fueled the intensity and passion surrounding this Ohio showdown.
Join us as we dissect the match history, analyze the key players, and preview the upcoming encounter, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of one of the most compelling rivalries in MLS.
The Origin of ‘Hell is Real’
The moniker “Hell is Real” is derived from a well-known billboard along Interstate 71, situated between Cincinnati and Columbus. This billboard, erected in 2004 in Madison County, displays the stark message in white capital letters against a black backdrop, with the ‘H’ in ‘Hell’ ominously rendered in red. This iconic sign has become a symbol of the rivalry, embodying the intense passion and unwavering commitment of fans from both cities.
The billboard itself has an interesting backstory. It was originally put up by a local church, intended as a religious message. However, over time, it has been embraced by soccer fans as a representation of the fierce competition between their teams. The phrase “Hell is Real” perfectly encapsulates the no-holds-barred attitude and unwavering determination that characterize the derby.
The adoption of this phrase by the soccer community has given it a new layer of meaning, transforming it from a simple religious statement into a powerful symbol of sporting rivalry. It serves as a constant reminder of the high stakes and intense emotions that are always present whenever FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew clash on the pitch.
The Rivalry Begins: FC Cincinnati Joins MLS
The rivalry truly took shape when FC Cincinnati joined Major League Soccer in 2019. Columbus Crew had long been the established team in Ohio, and FC Cincinnati’s arrival immediately created a sense of competition for fans and media attention. The first few matches between the two teams were highly anticipated, and the atmosphere was electric.
FC Cincinnati’s entry into MLS brought a new level of excitement to the Ohio soccer scene. The team quickly gained a large and passionate following, and their matches against Columbus Crew became instant classics. The rivalry was further fueled by the geographical proximity of the two cities, creating a natural and intense competitive environment.
The initial matches between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew were characterized by hard-fought battles on the field and passionate displays of support from the fans. It quickly became clear that this was more than just another game; it was a clash of cultures, a battle for supremacy, and a showcase of the growing popularity of soccer in Ohio.
Early Encounters: Defining Moments
The early encounters between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew set the tone for the rivalry. While Columbus Crew initially dominated the series, FC Cincinnati showed flashes of brilliance, proving that they were a force to be reckoned with. These matches were filled with drama, excitement, and plenty of memorable moments.
One of the most notable early matches was a thrilling 2-2 draw in August 2019. This game showcased the attacking talent of both teams and demonstrated the competitive balance that would come to define the rivalry. The match was played in front of a packed stadium, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish.
Another key moment came in October 2020, when FC Cincinnati secured their first victory over Columbus Crew with a 2-1 win. This victory was a significant milestone for the club and a clear sign that they were closing the gap on their rivals. The match was hard-fought and closely contested, and the victory was celebrated wildly by FC Cincinnati fans.
Recent Seasons: A Shift in Power?
In recent seasons, FC Cincinnati has emerged as a top contender in MLS, challenging Columbus Crew’s dominance. Both teams have consistently been among the league’s best, making the Hell is Real derby even more meaningful. The stakes are always high, as both teams vie for playoff positioning and bragging rights.
The 2023 season was particularly memorable, as both teams reached the MLS Cup playoffs. Columbus Crew ultimately emerged victorious, but FC Cincinnati proved that they were a force to be reckoned with. The matches between the two teams were intense and closely contested, and the rivalry reached new heights.
The current season sees both teams sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings, setting the stage for another epic showdown. With both teams in excellent form, the upcoming Hell is Real derby promises to be a thrilling encounter that will captivate fans across the country.
Match History: A Detailed Breakdown
Here’s a comprehensive look at the match history between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew since FC Cincinnati joined MLS:
- August 10, 2019: Draw, 2-2
- August 25, 2019: Columbus Crew wins, 3-1
- July 11, 2020 (MLS is Back special tournament): Columbus Crew wins, 4-0
- August 29, 2020: Draw, 0-0
- September 6, 2020: Columbus Crew wins, 3-0
- October 14, 2020: FC Cincinnati wins, 2-1
- July 9, 2021: Draw, 2-2
- August 27, 2021: Columbus Crew wins, 3-2
- July 17, 2022: Columbus Crew wins, 2-0
- August 27, 2022: Draw, 2-2
- May 20, 2023: FC Cincinnati wins, 3-2
- August 20, 2023: Columbus Crew wins, 3-0
- December 2, 2023 (MLS Cup playoffs): Columbus Crew wins, 3-2
- May 11, 2024: FC Cincinnati wins, 2-1
- September 14, 2024: Draw, 0-0
Columbus Crew leads the overall series with seven wins, while FC Cincinnati has three victories. The remaining five matches have ended in draws. This detailed match history provides valuable context for understanding the evolution of the rivalry and the competitive balance between the two teams.
The Future of the Rivalry
The Hell is Real derby is poised to remain one of the most captivating rivalries in MLS for years to come. With both FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew consistently competing at the highest level, the stakes will only continue to rise. The passion of the fans, the intensity of the matches, and the rich history of the rivalry all contribute to its enduring appeal.
As both teams continue to evolve and develop, the Hell is Real derby will undoubtedly produce many more memorable moments and captivating storylines. The future of this rivalry is bright, and soccer fans across Ohio and the United States can look forward to many more years of intense competition and thrilling encounters.
The Hell is Real derby is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of soccer, a showcase of Ohio pride, and a testament to the power of sports to unite and divide communities. It’s a rivalry that will continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come.
Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy
The Hell is Real derby between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew stands as a testament to the passion, intensity, and unwavering commitment that define the world of soccer. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a marquee event, this rivalry has captured the hearts and minds of fans across Ohio and beyond.
As both teams continue to compete at the highest level, the Hell is Real derby will undoubtedly produce many more memorable moments and captivating storylines. The future of this rivalry is bright, and soccer fans can look forward to many more years of thrilling encounters and intense competition.
The Hell is Real derby is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of soccer, a showcase of Ohio pride, and an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come.
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