BRAD SMITH FC Cincinnati Defender #14 Analyzing His Impact on the 2025 Season
Brad Smith’s arrival in Cincinnati? It’s been nothing short of electric for the Orange and Blue faithful. He’s rocking the #14 jersey, and with that international experience for Australia plus those years in top leagues, Smith brings a cool head and a ton of skill to the back line. If you’re a fan, you’re probably already noticing his smart passes, tough defense, and that steadying vibe he brings in crunch time.
At 31, Smith’s journey has taken him from the pitches of Australia to England and now to Major League Soccer. He’s proven his left-sided play can spark attacks and lock things down defensively. FC Cincinnati supporters saw him fit in right away, adding leadership and reliability to a squad that’s got its eyes on big things this season.
For all the stats and details, check out his Brad Smith player profile.
Smith combines speed, tactical smarts, and that international pedigree. He’s already become a key figure in Cincinnati’s lineup.
Honestly, I’m keeping an eye on how he settles even more as the season rolls on. That’s a storyline worth watching.
Contents
Brad Smith Overview
Bradley Shaun Smith—most folks just call him Brad—lines up as a defender for FC Cincinnati, sporting the number 14. Born in Australia, he’s built a reputation as a steady presence, moving up through the pro soccer ranks with a certain consistency you just can’t teach.
Early Life and Background
As a kid, Brad Smith jumped into soccer with both feet. He moved through youth academies thanks to talent and a serious work ethic.
His family really backed his dream, and that support helped him climb through the youth ranks. Before long, he landed with the Liverpool Academy in England—pretty impressive for a teenager, right?
Those academy years? They focused hard on technique and tactics. That early grind gave Smith the foundation he needed for success in domestic leagues and on the international stage.
Exposure to top coaching in England shaped him into the pro he is today.
Place of Birth and Nationality
Brad Smith was born April 9, 1994, in Penrith, New South Wales, Australia. Penrith sits out on Sydney’s western edge—big sports town, lively community.
He holds dual citizenship with Australia and England, which has opened some unique doors for him in international soccer.
Smith’s played for Australia at the international level, adding another layer to his profile. His background ties together Aussie roots and English soccer upbringing, so he really brings a blend of both worlds to the pitch—and off it, too.
Want more detail? His player profile covers his birthplace and dual nationality.
Position and Playing Style
Smith usually lines up as a left-back, but he’s comfortable pushing up as a wingback or even a winger. He’s quick, loves to get forward, and isn’t shy about joining the attack.
He uses that left foot to whip in crosses, making him dangerous on offense. Defensively, he’s steady—always tracking back and reading the play.
Smith’s versatility lets coaches tweak tactics without burning a sub.
Here’s a look at his career stats:
| Season | Club | Position | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | FC Cincinnati | Left-Back | 20 | 2 | 4 |
| 2022-2023 | D.C. United | Left-Back | 18 | 1 | 3 |
| International | Australia | Defender | 22 | 0 | 2 |
Smith’s work rate and skills as a fullback have made him a go-to guy wherever he’s played. For more on his main spot, check out his FC Cincinnati signing announcement.
FC Cincinnati Career
Brad Smith’s move to FC Cincinnati really boosted the team’s back line. He brought experience, skill, and a knack for adapting on the left side.
The team handed him a key squad role at TQL Stadium, and he’s made his presence felt.
Joining FC Cincinnati
Smith signed with FC Cincinnati in March 2025 as a free agent after stints in several leagues. The club announced his arrival while strengthening the roster ahead of the MLS regular season.
They gave him a contract through 2025, with a club option for another year. That’s some flexibility for the future.
Smith’s experience in Europe, Australia, and MLS made him a big addition. The team valued his pace, crossing, and relentless work on the left.
FC Cincinnati’s announcement highlighted his skill and leadership—exactly what you want for a team pushing toward the top of the Eastern Conference.
The contract details—signed through 2025 with an option for 2026—show just how much faith the club has in him. Smith’s arrival added another international flavor to a roster that already mixes young guns and seasoned vets.
Squad Role and Number
You’ll see Smith in the #14 shirt, usually at left-back, but he can push up as a winger if called on. That flexibility gives the coach some fun options with formations.
Cincinnati wants to stay tough defensively, and Smith’s left foot helps balance things at both ends. He fit in fast, earning minutes and helping organize the back line.
Coaches trust him to handle the league’s best attackers. His overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses add a real threat out wide.
Squad Role Overview:
| Role | Position | Shirt Number | Main Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter/Rotation | Left-back | #14 | Speed, Crossing, Defense |
Having Smith in the squad adds depth. That’s huge during a long MLS season when injuries or suspensions can hit at any time.
Key Performances
Smith wasted no time making an impression at TQL Stadium. He played rock-solid defense, helping FC Cincinnati rack up clean sheets against some of MLS’s best.
His positioning and ability to read the game made him a reliable piece of the back four. On the attack, Smith delivered crosses that set up key chances.
He logged assists and helped build up play from deep. The guy’s got stamina—he covers a ton of ground on the left, linking up with midfielders and supporting the front line.
Sample Performance Stats:
| Matches Played | Minutes | Assists | Clean Sheets | Yellow Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 900 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
Smith’s play has kept Cincinnati in the playoff hunt, locking things down at the back and sparking transitions up the left.
Major League Soccer Experience
Brad Smith’s logged real miles in Major League Soccer as a left back. He’s delivered big performances, made playoff runs, and chipped in on both sides of the ball.
Seattle Sounders FC
Smith landed at Seattle Sounders FC in 2018, on loan from AFC Bournemouth. He jumped right in as a regular left back.
His speed and crossing gave Seattle’s attack a new look. In the 2019 MLS Cup run, Smith played a key role—he featured in the final and helped Seattle grab its second title.
Across two stints with Seattle, he racked up over 60 appearances in all competitions. He scored his first MLS goal in 2021.
Fans and analysts praised his ability to support both ends—he created chances with those crosses. Sure, injuries sometimes slowed him down, but when Smith was fit, his impact was obvious.
Seattle Sounders FC Appearances:
| Year | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 8 | 0 | 1 |
| 2019 | 27 | 0 | 7 |
| 2021 | 25 | 2 | 3 |
Houston Dynamo FC
Smith headed to Houston Dynamo FC before the 2022 season. The club expected a lot, hoping his championship experience would lift the squad.
He played as a fullback and wingback, adapting to whatever the coaches needed. Unfortunately, injuries limited his minutes and kept him from finding a steady rhythm.
Despite that, Smith provided solid defensive cover and made runs forward when he could. Coaches and teammates appreciated his professionalism and experience, especially when the going got tough.
He made 9 league appearances for Houston, focusing on defensive duties and helping younger players along.
Notable moments with Houston Dynamo FC:
- Debut in the first match of the 2022 season
- Assisted on a game-winning goal against Vancouver Whitecaps FC
D.C. United
After Houston, Smith moved to D.C. United in 2023, joining a club in the middle of a rebuild. He worked under Wayne Rooney, playing both as a starter and off the bench.
Smith provided valuable depth at left back, stepping up when injuries hit the back line. His ability to run the left sideline let D.C. shift tactics on the fly.
Smith’s experience in high-pressure matches helped during the club’s playoff chase. He wasn’t the main offensive weapon, but coaches trusted him to close out games and protect leads.
D.C. United 2023 Season Key Stats:
| Matches Played | Starts | Minutes Played | Assists | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 8 | 789 | 1 | 4 |
Smith’s time across these MLS teams shows a defender who adapts, chips in at both ends, and earns respect in every locker room.
Youth and Early Career
Brad Smith sharpened his skills at one of England’s top youth academies. Those early years, bouncing around English clubs, really built his technical and tactical base.
And folks, you can see that foundation every time he steps on the pitch.
Liverpool FC Academy
Smith joined the Liverpool FC Academy as a teenager, making the big move from Australia to England to chase his soccer dreams.
At Liverpool, he worked his way up, playing for both the youth and reserve squads.
He made a name for himself with his speed down the left and his knack for swinging in accurate crosses. Coaches at Liverpool liked putting him at left back or wingback—positions he kept playing throughout his career.
Smith got his first-team debut for Liverpool in the Premier League. That’s a huge milestone for any academy kid.
He made several senior appearances, showing off his versatility and defensive instincts.
Liverpool FC Academy Highlights:
| Season | Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-2013 | Liverpool U21 | 20 | 1 |
| 2013-2014 | Liverpool (senior) | 5 | 0 |
Loan Spells and Transfers
Once Smith broke into Liverpool’s senior team, he headed out on loan to get more experience.
In 2014, he joined Swindon Town and played in League One. That’s where he learned about the physical and tactical grind of English lower league soccer.
After Swindon, Smith moved to AFC Bournemouth for several seasons. He played Premier League matches for them, testing himself against some of the best attackers around.
He also spent time on loan at Cardiff City, adding to his experience in English football.
Smith kept adapting to new systems and styles, turning himself into a dependable left-sided defender.
International Career
Brad Smith didn’t just build his reputation at club level. He made his mark on the international stage too.
Playing for Australia in big tournaments gave him valuable experience and put his skills to the test against top-tier talent.
Australia National Team Appearances
Smith made his debut for the Australia national team in 2014, picking up his first senior cap.
He usually plays left-back, known for his pace and those crosses from the wing. Over the years, he’s racked up dozens of appearances for the Socceroos.
He’s been part of squads for some huge games—World Cup qualifiers, AFC Asian Cup matches, you name it.
Smith has contributed at both ends of the field, offering that all-important versatility. Australia’s coaches keep turning to him when the stakes are high.
Here’s a quick look at his senior national team stats:
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Caps | 24 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Major Tournaments | 2 |
Smith has played in plenty of friendlies and qualifiers too, consistently putting in solid performances.
Australian fans know his name well, especially when the big tournaments come around.
Youth International Tournaments
Before he made it to the senior team, Brad Smith played in several youth competitions.
He caught attention as part of Australia’s squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Playing at that level gave him critical tournament experience and helped sharpen his defensive abilities.
Smith got selected for both the U-17 and U-20 Australian teams. His performances there showed coaches he was ready for the next step.
He stood out for his work rate and technical skills on the left, making his mark early on.
Those early tournaments set him up for the senior squad jump. He went up against top young talent from all over and built up the confidence he’d need for bigger stages.
National team coaches often point to his youth experience as the reason for his maturity later on.
Player Statistics and Performance
Brad Smith lines up as a left back for FC Cincinnati, wearing number 14.
He’s provided key defensive work and some attacking flair this season. Let’s dig into the stats and see what kind of impact he’s had.
MLS Stats
Smith has played in 9 MLS matches for Cincinnati this season, logging 358 minutes on the pitch.
His clean sheet percentage is 33 percent—so the team kept a shutout in three of his nine games. While he was out there, FC Cincinnati allowed an average of 1.51 goals per 90 minutes, which is a pretty important number for a defender.
Here’s a quick snapshot of his main MLS stats:
| Season | Matches | Minutes Played | Clean Sheets | Goals Conceded (per 90) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 9 | 358 | 3 | 1.51 |
Smith’s minutes and defensive contributions show he’s a reliable, positionally aware defender. He’s still fighting for starting minutes, facing tough MLS attackers every week.
Goals and Assists
So far this MLS season, Smith hasn’t scored for FC Cincinnati. He also hasn’t picked up an official assist.
His focus has stayed on defense, supporting wide areas and making overlapping runs, even if it hasn’t shown up in the stats.
But let’s be honest—Smith’s work rate up and down the left is a real asset. He creates space and delivers crosses, keeping the pressure on, even if it doesn’t lead to personal numbers.
He’s one of those players who helps the team in ways that don’t always make the highlight reel.
Other Competitions
Smith’s appearances outside MLS—like the Cup Playoffs or U.S. Open Cup—have been limited this year.
No goals or assists to report from those events in 2025.
His main impact’s been in league play. Still, with his experience and versatility, he’s always in the mix for future cup lineups if Cincinnati makes a deep run.
For the latest details, check out his FC Cincinnati player profile or MLS career log.
Physical Attributes
Brad Smith brings a mix of size, athleticism, and that all-important left foot to FC Cincinnati’s back line.
His physical profile really shapes his style and impact for the club.
Height and Weight
Smith stands at 5’10” (178 cm) and weighs about 154 pounds (70 kg).
That size is pretty ideal for a defender—tall enough to win headers, but still agile and quick along the sideline.
On the field, Smith uses his frame to hold his ground and contest balls in the air. He manages to blend strength with mobility, which lets him make those smooth runs up and down the left.
That combo of height and weight has served him well in over 200 pro matches, helping with both defensive reliability and supporting the attack.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Weight | 154 lbs (70 kg) |
Preferred Foot
Smith is a natural lefty, which is gold in modern soccer, especially for a defender on the left.
His left foot is the go-to—he uses it for crosses, clearances, and building up play, all crucial for FC Cincinnati’s quick transitions.
Left-footed defenders give teams better balance, and Smith’s technique lets him send in accurate balls from wide areas.
That reliable left foot helps with both defense and sharp distribution to teammates.
Coaches love having a left-footed option for opening up the field, and Smith’s ability in that department is a real asset.
For more on his background and role, check out Brad Smith’s FC Cincinnati profile.
Recognition and Honors
Brad Smith’s soccer journey features some big club wins and personal recognition that underline his impact on and off the pitch.
He’s helped championship teams in MLS and played key roles in big matches, earning respect for his steady performances.
Team Achievements
Smith played for the Seattle Sounders during their 2019 MLS Cup run—one of the biggest prizes in Major League Soccer.
His work on the left helped stabilize the backline, both in the regular season and playoffs. The Sounders faced some tense moments, but Smith’s experience came up big, especially late in the postseason.
He’s also been part of teams competing for the U.S. Open Cup, but his main legacy is that championship with Seattle.
After leaving the Sounders, Smith joined LAFC, another club with a strong rep in both league and cup action. In 2024, he signed on with FC Cincinnati, bringing that winning background to a team aiming for similar heights. You can see more in the official FC Cincinnati announcement.
Major Team Achievements Table
| Year | Club | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Seattle Sounders FC | MLS Cup | Winner |
| 2019 | Seattle Sounders FC | U.S. Open Cup | Semifinalist |
Personal Accolades
Smith’s speed and crossing have earned him steady respect among league defenders.
He hasn’t grabbed the top individual MLS awards, but his consistency has led to regular starts and plenty of recognition from coaches.
Smith picked up multiple assists in deep playoff runs, locking down his spot as a trusted starter when it matters most.
While the big personal trophies haven’t come his way, coaches and teammates definitely notice his value. His selection for Australia’s national team says a lot about his level.
According to his Transfermarkt profile, he’s passed 200 professional club appearances—pretty select company for an active Aussie in MLS.
Media Presence and Coverage
Brad Smith, Cincinnati’s left back, keeps popping up in the media—both for what he does on the field and updates off it.
You’ll find coverage in club news, highlight reels, and reports about contracts and transfers.
In the News
Smith’s arrival at FC Cincinnati got plenty of headlines. Major outlets highlighted his experience across different leagues.
The club’s official site broke down his signing and what he brings as a defender.
Local sports media followed his adjustment to Cincinnati, especially how his veteran leadership affects the squad.
His performances—big tackles, key defensive plays—show up in match recaps and season previews. These updates keep fans and analysts clued in about Smith’s impact.
Fox Sports also tracks Smith’s news and updates, so supporters can follow his progress in one spot.
National outlets and fan blogs often highlight Smith’s tactical strengths and value to the team.
Video Highlights
If you’re looking for Smith’s highlights, you’re in luck.
Official club highlight reels and major sports outlets regularly showcase his tackles, clearances, and involvement in offensive plays.
Weekly highlight packages often include Smith, especially when he makes a big defensive stop or helps set up a scoring chance.
These videos get plenty of play on FC Cincinnati’s social media, so fans can catch Smith’s top moments from each match.
You’ll also find full-match replays and clips on YouTube and the official FC Cincinnati site. MLS summary shows often feature Smith in post-game breakdowns.
Transfer and Contract Updates
Smith’s move to FC Cincinnati made waves in MLS transfer news.
In March 2025, he signed a deal through December, with a club option for another year.
Contract Details Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Club | FC Cincinnati |
| Position | Defender (Left-Back) |
| Club Number | 14 |
| Contract Started | March 14, 2025 |
| Contract Ends | December 31, 2025 |
| Option Year? | Yes, club option for 2026 |
Sites like Transfermarkt keep Smith’s contract details and career history up to date. Club press releases and official announcements lay out the timelines, so fans always know where Smith fits into Cincinnati’s plans.
Matchday and Fan Information
Alright, FC Cincinnati fans—there’s nothing quite like the buzz at TQL Stadium. The energy? Absolutely electric.
People really care about getting their tickets sorted, and the club makes sure fans know what to expect. Everyone wants the inside scoop on the stadium that Brad Smith and his squad call home.
Ticketing and Schedule
The club usually rolls out tickets in a few phases. Season ticket holders always get first dibs, and then the rest of us can jump in.
You can grab single-game tickets, group deals, or just go for the whole season package. Prices? They jump around depending on where you want to sit, who’s coming to town, and how hot the matchup is.
Here’s a quick look at the usual ticket options:
| Ticket Type | Price Range | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Season Tickets | $300 – $1,800 | High |
| Single Game | $25 – $250 | Varies by match |
| Group Tickets | $20+ per seat | By request |
The FC Cincinnati season kicks off in late February and rolls through October. You’ll find home and away games mixed in, mostly on weekends.
Seriously, don’t forget to check the latest fixture list and kickoff times before you head out. Wouldn’t want to miss a big one!
Home Venue
TQL Stadium? That’s where FC Cincinnati calls home. They opened the doors in 2021, and this place holds around 26,000 fans.
You’ll find it right in Cincinnati’s West End. It’s pretty easy to get to—major highways and public transit run nearby.
Fans can pick from supporter sections, premium suites, or family-friendly spots. Every seat gives you a clear look at the field, which definitely matters when you’re watching Brad Smith hold it down in defense.
When it’s matchday, they open the gates about 90 minutes before kickoff. That gives everyone time to check out the concessions, team shops, and those interactive fan zones scattered around.
Parking’s not a headache here, either. Lots and garages wrap around TQL Stadium, so you’ve got options.
Honestly, the matchday vibe goes way beyond just the soccer. You get convenience, energy, and a crowd that feels like they’re all in it together.
