FC Cincinnati will play for its first-ever potential trip to MLS Cup after sneaking past the Philadelphia Union in dramatic fashion on Saturday night at TQL Stadium.

Yerson Mosquera’s 94th minute winning goal propelled the reigning Supporters’ Shield holders into the Eastern Conference Finals after a 1-0 result. FC Cincy defender Ian Murphy looked to be offsides before assisting on the game-winning goal, but the decision stood as Pat Noonan’s squad advanced to their first conference final.

With both teams fighting for a winner before potential extra time, FC Cincinnati took advantage off of a set piece situation. Alvaro Barreal’s cross was headed back across the Union box by Murphy, allowing Mosquera to drill home a right-footed shot.

https://x.com/MLS/status/1728614704220713160?s=20

Brandon Vazquez was denied an early opener by Andre Blake as the Jamaica goalkeeper punched away the veteran forward’s right-footed shot. Aaron Boupendza’s long-range effort was also repelled by the veteran shot-stopper as FC Cincy continued to pile on the offensive chances.

Jim Curtin’s squad didn’t offer much in the final third, but forced Roman Celentano into four saves in total. Jose Martinez’s long-range effort was the Union’s best opportunity to break the deadlock, but Celentano was up to the task to gather the Venezuelan’s shot attempt.

FC Cincy’s last-gasp goal proved to be the difference as the Union had little to no time to earn an equalizer.

A Hell Is Real Derby is up next between FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew at TQL Stadium on Dec. 2 while the Union enter a tricky offseason.