Prince Owusu’s late brace lifts CF Montreal to 3-1 win over FC Cincinnati

Tom Barlow scored Cincinnati’s (8-9-9) lone goal.

With nine players called up for international duty and MLS denying a request to reschedule the game, Montreal was left with only three outfield substitutes. The situation worsened when Brayan Ceballos was injured less than ten minutes in, with no defenders on the bench.

The change saw Fabian Herbers come into the midfield, providing a more offensive structure to the team. It worked in Montreal’s favour as it controlled more of the ball in advanced positions and opened the scoring in the 25th minute.

After Dawid Bugaj’s cross was poorly cleared, the second ball fell to Rios, who dispatched a volley into the bottom right corner and overpowered Celentano.

Cincinnati responded with pressure, taking control over the game. The visitors’ best chance came just ten minutes after conceding when Evander was left alone in front of the goal but uncharacteristically sent the ball skyward.

Rios came within inches of doubling Montreal’s lead right before the break on the counter but could not get on the first-time shot from Owusu’s cross on target.

Cincinnati redoubled their efforts in the second half and pinned Montreal back in their half in search of an equalizer. In the 64th minute, the pressure paid off. After being left unmarked in the penalty area, Gerardo Valenzuela found Barlow at the back post for a tap-in.

UP NEXT

Montreal: Will play the second Canadian Classique of the season, facing Toronto FC on the road on Oct. 10.

Cincinnati: Will travel to face Atlanta United on Oct. 10.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 26, 2026.

Elias Grigoriadis, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Prince Owusu’s late brace lifts CF Montreal to 3-1 win over FC Cincinnati

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