Ahead of FC Cincinnati’s fourth round clash with Louisville City FC on Wednesday night at Nippert Stadium, Jeff Berding said he’s looking forward to the two clubs renewing the rivalry match with trophy implications – and bragging rights – on the line.

“We have enormous respect for Louisville City, so it will be a very exciting match,” said Berding, FCC’s president. “Obviously, it’s a great rivalry and our fans are very passionate about this rivalry. As you think of the fourth round, we drew the best team in the USL.”

The two clubs formed arguably the best rivalry in USL the past three seasons before Cincinnati joined MLS in 2019. While the Orange and Blue won the USL regular-season title with 23-straight matches unbeaten, Lou City have claimed the last two USL Cups.

Because the two clubs are in different leagues, their only way to meet competitively is through the U.S. Open Cup. They’ve met previously in the tournament, when Cincinnati beat Louisville 1-0 in the third round of the 2017 Open Cup. Wednesday night marks FCC’s first match in the competition this season.

“It should be a terrific match and I certainly hope the city turns out,” Berding said. “We have a great home-field advantage, so we’re looking forward to it. “They’re a terrific USL club, so we certainly will have our hands full and it will be a great match.”