Messi, Inter Miami CF to return to TQL for Eastern Conference Semifinals

CINCINNATI (WXIX) - After winning the high-stakes “Hell Is Real” playoff series, FC Cincinnati is now preparing to play one of its strongest competitors in the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup.

The Blue and Orange will face world-renowned striker Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF at TQL Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 5 p.m.

FCC is ranked No. 2 in the league with Inter Miami right behind them at No. 3.

Fans can buy tickets for the match here.

In the 2025 MLS regular season, FCC and Inter Miami played each other twice in July over the course of 10 days.

Cincinnati defeated Miami 3-0 at TQL Stadium in the first match, while the second game ended in a scoreless draw at Inter Miami’s home base.

Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs: Conference Semifinals schedule

• Western Conference:
  • Saturday, Nov. 22: No. 2 Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. No. 3 Los Angeles FC
  • Monday, Nov. 24: No. 1 San Diego FC vs. No. 5 Minnesota United FC
• Eastern Conference:
  • Sunday, Nov. 23: No. 2 FC Cincinnati vs. No. 3 Inter Miami CF
  • Sunday, Nov. 23: No. 1 Philadelphia Union vs. No. 5 New York City FC

If FC Cincinnati defeats Inter Miami CF, they will play either Philadelphia Union or New York City FC.

Moving on from conference semifinals

MLS released the rest of the dates for the MLS Cup Playoffs once the semifinals are over.

• Conference Finals: Saturday, Nov. 29 & Sunday, Nov. 30
• MLS Cup 2025: Saturday, Dec. 6

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