FC Cincinnati Welcomes Toronto FC to TQL Stadium in Sunday Night Showdown

FC Cincinnati returns to TQL Stadium to face Toronto FC on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET. The match, broadcast on Apple TV as part of Sunday Night Soccer, marks the first marquee game of the season for FCC and features a bobblehead giveaway for the first 10,000 fans – a bobblehead of midfielder Evander in the new Seven Hills kit.

Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record

FC Cincinnati is looking to bounce back after a 1-0 loss to Minnesota United FC, while Toronto FC enters the match without a win in their first two games of the 2026 MLS season. The Reds are currently on a road trip due to renovations at BMO Field in preparation for the FIFA World Cup.

Historically, FC Cincinnati has dominated the series against Toronto FC, holding an all-time record of 9-4-1. They swept the season series in 2025 and have never conceded a goal to Toronto FC at TQL Stadium, outscoring them 9-0 in five matches at the venue.

Under Head Coach Pat Noonan, Cincinnati is unbeaten against Toronto FC, boasting a 7-0-1 record.

Toronto FC’s New Look

Toronto FC has undergone significant changes since the conclude of the 2025 season, adding several key players. Notable acquisitions include attacking midfielder Djorde Mihailovic, who joined the club mid-season in 2025 and contributed eight goal contributions in 10 matches, and defender Walker Zimmerman, a former Nashville SC captain and free agent signing. Most recently, Toronto added forward Josh Sargent as a Designated Player, acquiring him from Norwich City FC of the EFL Championship for a league-high fee.

Sargent, a 26-year-old with over 150 appearances for Norwich City and 56 goals, has as well been a regular for the U.S. Men’s National Team, earning 29 caps and scoring five goals. He could produce his debut on Sunday.

Key Players and Tactical Considerations

FC Cincinnati Head Coach Pat Noonan emphasized the need for focus and improvement in decision-making following the team’s recent performance. He noted Sargent’s relentless work rate and goal-scoring ability as key factors to consider.

Toronto FC is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Mihailovic in the attacking midfield and Zimmerman anchoring the defense. Luka Gavran is expected to start in goal for Toronto.

Three current FC Cincinnati players – Tom Barlow, Kévin Denkey, and Kyle Smith – have previously scored against Toronto FC in their MLS careers. Denkey scored in both matches against Toronto FC last season.

How to Watch

• Watch/Stream: Apple TV (English/Spanish)
• English Local Radio: ESPN 1530
• Spanish Local Radio: La Mega 101.5 FM
• Social Media: FC Cincinnati’s X/Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
• Mobile App: iOS and Android

Grande Momento

FC Cincinnati midfielder Evander is one goal shy of tying Wélton’s all-time MLS record of goals scored by a Brazilian-born player (43).