Pat Noonan | Prematch Press Conference | 8/13/26

FC Cincinnati Head Coach Pat Noonan discusses the club’s Leagues Cup exit and looks ahead to this weekend’s MLS matchup against Orlando City SC.

Noonan reflects on the team’s elimination from Leagues Cup, pointing to strong stretches of play before difficulties with game management and composure in the final stages of matches. He discusses the importance of leadership on the field, learning from recent setbacks, and ensuring mistakes do not snowball into bigger problems as the team returns to league play.

The conversation also covers player availability and workload management as FC Cincinnati prepares for a demanding road trip. Noonan explains that Evander and Pavel Bucha have carried significant minutes and are being monitored closely, while the squad focuses on recovery and preparation for the heat and physical challenges expected in Orlando. He also provides an update on Nick Hagglund’s status and discusses the value Kyle Smith continues to bring as a versatile and dependable option along the back line.

Looking ahead to Orlando City SC, Noonan breaks down one of the league’s most dangerous attacks and highlights the impact of Griezmann’s arrival, along with the challenges posed by Ellis and Iván Angulo. He also explains previous lineup decisions, including the tactical reasoning behind selecting Teenage Hadebe in certain situations, and shares how FC Cincinnati plans to handle the pace, intensity, and environmental conditions of the match.

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