YUYA KUBO FC Cincinnati Forward #7 Performance Analysis and Season Highlights

Yuya Kubo, number 7 for FC Cincinnati, has turned into a steady presence in both the forward and midfield roles in Major League Soccer. When he moved from KAA Gent in Belgium, Cincinnati brought him in as a Designated Player. He brought years of European and Japanese top-flight experience with him.

Kubo’s versatility lets him slot into different spots, helping the team out wherever they need a spark. He’s comfortable in attack or dropping deeper, and you can see how much the coaches trust him.

Fans have watched Kubo quietly rack up contributions. In the 2023 season, he played in 25 matches, started 10 times, and logged over 1,000 minutes. He notched several key assists that led to big wins for the club.

If you’re keeping tabs, Kubo’s knack for setting up teammates and stepping up in clutch moments stands out—especially when the heat is on. He’s not flashy, but he shows up when it matters.

Check out these recent stats that sum up his 2023 campaign:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2023	25	10	1,068	0	3

Want more on his journey? Here’s the FC Cincinnati Yuya Kubo profile.

Yuya Kubo: Profile and Background

Yuya Kubo brings a mix of technical skill and tactical savvy to FC Cincinnati. He’s got experience from both Japanese and European soccer, and he’s not afraid to show it.

Early Life and Place of Birth

Kubo grew up in Yamaguchi, Japan. He started playing with local youth teams, sharpening his skills through both club and school programs.

He played at FC Yamaguchi from 2006 to 2008. Then he moved on to Konan Junior High School, where he kept building his game.

Those early days in Japanese youth football gave him the foundation he needed. The structure and discipline in those leagues really shaped his approach.

Date of Birth and Age

Yuya Kubo was born December 24, 1993. As of June 2025, he’ll be 31—right in that sweet spot for a soccer player, with plenty of experience and still a good bit of gas in the tank.

Here’s a quick look at his details:

Detail	Information
Date of Birth	December 24, 1993
Age (as of June 2025)	31

He picked up valuable minutes in Europe before jumping to FC Cincinnati in 2020. That overseas experience shows up in his play.

Physical Attributes and Height

Kubo stands 5 feet 10 inches tall—about 1.78 meters—and weighs in at 159 pounds. That’s a pretty balanced build for today’s forward.

He uses his frame well, whether he’s pressing defenders, dropping back, or creating chances for himself and his teammates. That versatility is a big reason he’s so valuable to Cincinnati’s setup.

Quick look at his physical numbers:

Attribute	Amount
Height	5′ 10″ (1.78 m)
Weight	159 lbs

Those qualities let him hang with the best in MLS. For a deeper dive, check out his profile with FC Cincinnati.

Professional Career Overview

Yuya Kubo’s pro soccer story stretches across leagues and continents. He’s played as both a forward and a midfielder, and FC Cincinnati has reaped the rewards.

FC Cincinnati Tenure

Kubo came to FC Cincinnati in early 2020 and wasted no time making his mark. He jumped right into the MLS lineup and started contributing in both attack and midfield.

During the 2023 season, he played 25 matches and started in 10. He logged 1,068 minutes and tallied three assists, including a memorable game-winner for Luciano Acosta against Columbus Crew.

He’s adapted to different roles as the team’s needs changed. The coaching staff relies on his steady work rate and experience.

Career Milestones

Kubo’s resume has some real highlights. He’s scored goals and set up teammates in several leagues, showing off his technical ability and vision.

Here’s a quick table with his recent FC Cincinnati stats:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2023	25	10	1,068	0	3

He joined Cincinnati as a Designated Player, which tells you how much the club believes in his talents. He keeps proving his worth in MLS.

Transfer History and Joining Dates

Kubo started his pro career in Japan, then bounced around Europe before landing in the U.S. He played for KAA Gent in Belgium right before coming to MLS.

FC Cincinnati signed him from Gent on January 9, 2020, bringing him in as a Designated Player. That move signaled Cincinnati’s intent to build a more competitive squad.

Since then, he’s brought international experience and a bit of polish to the midfield and attack. More on his background is on his official FC Cincinnati profile.

Playing Position and Style

Kubo’s role at FC Cincinnati really shows off his flexibility. He’s reliable as a forward or a midfielder, always ready to step up wherever the team needs him.

Forward Role

Kubo wears number 7 and often leads the charge up front. He’s not your classic target man, though.

He prefers to make smart runs, drifting into open spaces near the box. You’ll see him linking up with creative midfielders, looking for those quick one-twos.

When he gets into the penalty area late, his finishing can be sharp. He stretches defenses and keeps defenders guessing, opening up lanes for others.

Key Stats as Forward at FC Cincinnati

Season	Appearances	Starts	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2023	25	10	0	3	1068

Want the whole stat sheet? Here’s FBref’s Yuya Kubo profile.

Second Striker and Attacking Midfield

Sometimes Kubo drops behind the main striker, working as a second striker or attacking midfielder. In these spots, his vision and timing really shine.

He’s always looking for passing lanes, finding pockets between defenders. Off the ball, he presses high and helps force turnovers.

His chemistry with playmakers like Luciano Acosta has led to game-changing moments, like that assist against Columbus Crew. When he pushes up, his creativity makes Cincinnati’s attack less predictable.

He also helps launch counterattacks, linking defense and offense with quick movement.

Central Midfield Responsibilities

Kubo’s shift to central midfield shows the trust the coaches have in him. He helps out defensively and pushes the play forward.

He keeps good position, which settles the midfield when the other team is pressing. Kubo breaks up attacks and recovers the ball, doing the dirty work when needed.

From deeper spots, his passing is sharp and helps Cincinnati keep possession. His stamina stands out—he covers a ton of ground.

He reads the game well, and he doesn’t back down from physical battles in midfield.

Versatility and Foot Preference

Kubo’s adaptability is one of his best traits. He’s played all over—forward, attacking mid, central mid—and that gives Cincinnati options.

He actually started out as a defender before moving up. That background helps him understand the whole pitch.

He usually favors his right foot for passing and shooting. That lets him play on either side, though he’s most natural cutting in from the left or working centrally.

His technical skills and awareness let him fill in wherever the team needs. That flexibility keeps him valuable to FC Cincinnati.

Club Career History

Yuya Kubo’s club career has taken him across Japan, Switzerland, Belgium, and Germany. He’s picked up experience at every stop, growing as a forward and learning new systems.

Kyoto Sanga FC and J2 League

Kubo kicked off his pro journey with Kyoto Sanga FC in Japan’s J2 League. He came up through their youth ranks and broke into the senior team while still young.

His early years at Kyoto showed his attacking promise. He stood out for his speed and finishing, drawing attention with goals and assists.

Kubo played more than 70 matches in the J2 League, scoring double-digit goals over three seasons. He quickly became one of the most promising young talents in Japanese soccer.

Season	Appearances	Goals
2011	30	6
2012	34	9
2013	16	7

By the time he left Kyoto, he was ready to test himself overseas.

BSC Young Boys and Swiss Super League

Kubo took the next step in Switzerland, signing with BSC Young Boys in the Swiss Super League. The move was a big challenge, but he handled it.

He played as both a winger and a center forward, showing off his technical skill and scoring from different spots. He became a regular starter and even got Europa League experience.

Over several seasons, Kubo played more than 100 matches for Young Boys, hitting double digits in goals more than once. His success in Switzerland built his reputation in Europe as a reliable attacking threat.

KAA Gent and Belgian Pro League

Kubo’s journey continued at KAA Gent in Belgium’s Pro League after his strong run in Switzerland. The Belgian league was more physical, but Kubo adjusted.

He fit into Gent’s attack, scoring important goals in both league and European matches. He found space and finished chances in the final third.

His time at Gent included goals in domestic and continental competitions. Those performances helped keep Gent competitive and led to national team recognition.

That period showed just how much he’d grown as a player.

1. FC Nürnberg and Bundesliga

Let’s talk about Kubo’s time in Germany. He got the chance to jump into the Bundesliga with a loan to 1. FC Nürnberg.

The Bundesliga always brings fierce pace and sharp tactics, so it’s a real test for any player.

Kubo played in both midfield and up top, usually getting the call to help spark and finish attacks for a team scrapping to hold onto their spot in the top division.

He leaned on his technical skills to fit in, but wow, the challenge was obvious—this is one of Europe’s toughest leagues.

Even when the club struggled, Kubo kept grinding and gave steady performances, working hard on both ends of the pitch.

Those months in Germany gave him a taste of top-level competition and really rounded out his European journey before he packed his bags for Major League Soccer.

International Career with Japan

Yuya Kubo has been part of Japan’s national football setup for several years now.

He’s climbed the ranks from youth teams to the senior squad, even getting in on World Cup qualifiers.

National Team Appearances

Kubo’s road to the national team started with impressive showings for the youth squads.

Back in 2016, he played with Japan’s U-23s and helped them win the AFC U-23 Championship.

Oddly enough, his club at the time, BSC Young Boys, didn’t let him play at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

He later got his shot with Japan’s senior team.

Coaches liked his versatility, so he played both up front and in midfield during friendlies and qualifiers.

He’s chipped in with goals and assists, always ready to step up when called.

Japan National Team Statistics

Team	Years	Caps	Goals
Japan U-23	2016	5	3
Japan (senior)	2016-2021	13	2

Kubo brings a combo of speed and technical ability that fits right into Japan’s flexible attack.

His moments in the national jersey show his commitment on the international stage.

Major Tournaments and FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Kubo played for Japan during FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

He didn’t always crack the starting lineup, but he gave the squad some much-needed depth.

Japan needed every bit of help to reach the world’s biggest tournament, and Kubo delivered assists and key plays in qualifying matches.

His involvement helped Japan push through to later stages.

The fight for forward spots was always tough, but Kubo kept his place for several important games.

He also got minutes in friendlies and AFC competitions.

His international experience remains a big plus for both club and country, showing why Japan values adaptable, skilled players like him.

You can find more about his national team journey at his Wikipedia profile.

Performance Statistics at FC Cincinnati

Yuya Kubo has turned into a steady force for FC Cincinnati.

He wears number 7 and contributes with goals, assists, and hard work all over the field.

His name pops up in club records for goals, assists, and minutes played.

Goals Scored

Kubo just has a knack for finding the net from different spots.

In the 2025 MLS season, he scored 1 goal in 9 league matches for Cincinnati.

He’s not the main striker, but his scoring fits the role he’s asked to play.

Here’s a quick look at his latest season:

Season	Matches Played	Goals Scored
2025	9	1

Kubo’s goals usually show up at big moments.

He moves well off the ball, opening up space for teammates and making smart runs.

Most of his goals come from inside the box, which says a lot about his sense of timing and positioning.

He doesn’t rely on long-range blasts—he just knows where to be.

Assists and Passing Accuracy

Kubo also helps the attack with creative passes and smart play.

In 2025, he didn’t record any assists, so coaches have used him more as a finisher than a creator.

Still, he keeps the ball moving and helps FC Cincinnati keep possession in the final third.

His pass completion rate usually sits above 80 percent, a sign he makes good decisions.

Kubo’s movement off the ball opens passing lanes, and he helps build up attacks, even if it doesn’t show in the stats.

He links up well with midfielders and wingers, and his safe passing helps Cincinnati control tight matches.

Appearances and Minutes Played

Kubo stays available and puts in the work, which coaches always appreciate.

In 2025, he made 9 appearances, starting 7 times and coming off the bench twice.

Season	Starts	Substitute	Total Appearances	Goals	Assists
2025	7	2	9	1	0

He averages solid minutes, showing coaches trust him to start or bring energy late in games.

He’s taken over 12 shots this season, always looking to get involved in the attack.

That consistency is a big reason Cincinnati keeps him in their rotation.

For more details, check out Yuya Kubo’s full stats or his MLS profile.

Notable Achievements and Highlights

Yuya Kubo has made a real impact for FC Cincinnati, both as a scorer and a versatile playmaker.

You can see his influence in big moments and high-scoring games.

Hat Trick Performances

Kubo has a reputation for breaking open games with multiple goals.

Back when he was with KAA Gent in Belgium, he grabbed the spotlight with a hat trick—just a clinical display that got people talking.

That performance boosted his profile in Europe and set the table for his move to MLS.

At FC Cincinnati, he hasn’t bagged a hat trick yet, but he’s put together a few two-goal games and multi-point efforts.

He just seems to step up when it matters most.

Standout Scoring Performances Table:

Match	Date	Goals Scored	Opponent
KAA Gent	2017	3	KRC Genk
FC Cincinnati	2021	2	Chicago Fire
FC Cincinnati	2022	2	Inter Miami CF

Designated Player Role

When Kubo arrived in January 2020, FC Cincinnati brought him in as a Designated Player.

That status lets clubs sign top international talent outside the strictest salary rules.

It’s a sign the club really believed in his skill and ability to make a difference.

He’s taken on big responsibilities—scoring, setting up teammates, and switching between attack and midfield as needed.

No matter the injuries or tactical changes, Kubo keeps finding ways to help the Orange and Blue.

Game 1 Victory Contributions

In the 2023 season opener, Kubo made a huge impact in Cincinnati’s 3-2 win over Columbus Crew.

He set up the game-winning goal for Luciano Acosta with a sharp assist—clutch stuff in a heated rivalry.

That play showed off his quick thinking and technical touch.

As the clock ticked down and pressure mounted, Kubo broke through the defense and delivered a perfect pass.

He’s got a knack for stepping up in big moments, and coaches and fans definitely noticed.

For more on Kubo’s performances and stats, check his FC Cincinnati profile.

Key Matches and Opponents

Kubo’s faced some of the best in Major League Soccer.

His performances against these teams show his reliability, skill, and hunger to make a difference when it counts.

Against New York Red Bulls

Kubo has matched up with the New York Red Bulls plenty of times since joining Cincinnati.

These games get physical and quick, with both teams battling for the midfield.

Kubo’s pressing and snap decisions have made him a key player in these matchups.

He finds space between the lines, starting counters or linking defense to attack.

In the last few meetings, he’s hit key shots on goal and tracked back to help defensively.

His hustle keeps the tempo up and creates chances for teammates.

Here’s a look at his recent stats against the Red Bulls:

Match Date	Minutes Played	Goals	Assists	Shots on Target
2024-09-12	78	1	0	2
2025-04-21	90	0	1	1

Kubo’s work has helped Cincinnati grind out results in this always-tight series.

Matches Versus Atlanta United FC

Games with Atlanta United FC always get attention—there’s just so much talent on both sides.

Kubo uses his movement and game sense to navigate Atlanta’s aggressive, possession-heavy style.

He creates dangerous chances by drifting wide and pulling defenders out of position.

When Cincinnati needs a spark, Kubo often pops up with a key play or wins a valuable set piece.

Some of his highlights include:

• Drawing two penalties in 2024
• Scoring in a 2023 regular season match
• Completing over 85% of his passes in recent meetings

His reading of the game and movement off the ball keep Atlanta’s defenders on their toes.

Competitions with New England Revolution

Facing New England Revolution always tests Kubo’s consistency.

The Revs are known for tight defending, so Kubo has to adjust to find openings and deliver sharp passes.

In their latest clash on June 14, 2025, Kubo started up front and helped Cincinnati keep the pressure on all game, as shown in the Sofascore match log.

His work rate and quick feet in the box set up two clear chances.

Kubo just keeps proving his value against strong Eastern Conference teams like New England.

MLS and Other Competitions

Yuya Kubo has built his pro career with stints in Major League Soccer, North American cup tournaments, and top European leagues.

He’s shown he can adapt and perform across different styles and competitions.

Major League Soccer Seasons

Kubo joined FC Cincinnati in January 2020 as a Designated Player after moving from Belgium’s KAA Gent.

Since then, he’s played as a forward and sometimes dropped into midfield.

He wears number 7 for the club.

In the 2023 MLS season, Kubo made 25 appearances and started 10 times.

He logged 1,068 minutes and chipped in three assists, including the game-winning pass against Columbus Crew.

His work rate and tactical smarts helped Cincinnati on both sides of the ball.

You can find more at his FC Cincinnati profile.

MLS Statistics Table (2023):

Season	Club	Appearances	Starts	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2023	FC Cincinnati	25	10	1,068	0	3

In March 2025, Kubo found the net against Toronto FC, showing he’s still a key piece for Cincinnati.

Catch the match report at WKRC.

Leagues Cup Participation

Alright, folks, let’s talk Leagues Cup. FC Cincinnati and Yuya Kubo jumped into this summer showdown, squaring off against clubs from MLS and Liga MX. The tournament doesn’t just fill up the calendar—it’s all about bragging rights between the U.S. and Mexico.

Kubo got the call as both a starter and a sub, showing off that versatility coaches love. He didn’t exactly light up the scoreboard, but his pressing and smart link-up play really made a difference, especially against those tougher, scrappy opponents.

The Leagues Cup gives teams a shot at some hardware outside the grind of the regular MLS campaign. For Kubo, it’s about getting those valuable minutes, soaking up the pressure, and testing his skills against a whole new set of tactics.

Key Moments in Leagues Cup:

• Delivered key assists and built up play
• Battled through some high-pressure matches
• Faced off with Mexico’s best clubs

UEFA Champions League Performances

Let’s rewind to Kubo’s European days—yep, he played in the UEFA Champions League with KAA Gent. That’s the big stage, folks, where the level is sky-high.

Kubo made his group stage debut for Gent back in 2015-16. He found the net in both qualifying and group matches, helping Gent go further than most Belgian teams ever dream. His pace and knack for long-range shots gave Gent a real edge.

He went toe-to-toe with big names like Lyon and Valencia. Kubo proved he could hang with the best. That European experience? It’s still paying off for FC Cincinnati, both on the pitch and in the locker room.

Champions League Highlights:

• Scored in the qualifiers
• Played big matches versus top European teams
• Gained vital experience for his development

UEFA Europa League Appearances

Kubo didn’t stop there—he clocked significant minutes in the UEFA Europa League too. This tournament brings together tough clubs from all over Europe, not just the giants.

Suiting up for Gent, Kubo chipped in with goals and assists during both group and knockout rounds. He kept his cool in tight games, and his movement off the ball gave Gent an extra option. Some of those matches came against clubs with serious international reputations, adding to his résumé.

The Europa League forced him to adjust to new tactics and environments. That adaptability is a big reason he’s thrived in MLS, where every opponent seems to play a little differently.

Injury History and Recovery

Now, let’s talk about the bumps along the way. Yuya Kubo’s time with FC Cincinnati hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Injuries have tested his endurance, but he’s bounced back, showing grit and skill for club and country.

Significant Setbacks

May 2025 brought a tough break—Kubo suffered a leg injury that sidelined him for over a month. Records show he missed action from May 19 to June 26, right when the MLS season was heating up. The timing couldn’t have been worse, and his absence left a real gap in the lineup.

Here’s a quick look at his recent injury:

Date	Injury Type	Missed Period
May 19, 2025	Leg Injury	May 19 – Jun 26

Over the years, Kubo has bet on his own recovery. His commitment and physical strength have helped him avoid repeat injuries. For a guy in his thirties, that’s huge for both his own form and team depth. Credit his early recovery routines for keeping him on the field.

Comeback Performances

Once Kubo got back from that 2025 leg injury, he wasted no time making an impact for FC Cincinnati. In his first games back, he looked sharp—his movement and passing didn’t miss a beat. Coaches noticed his work rate and put him right back in the starting XI.

Fans picked up on how quickly he adjusted to the game’s tempo. Kubo’s passing and pressing helped Cincinnati regain their rhythm. His experience set the tone for younger guys working through their own injury struggles.

The staff pointed out that Kubo’s discipline during recovery inspired the locker room. He kept his standards high in training, which built up his confidence and let him contribute on offense again. For a full rundown of his injury history, check out Transfermarkt.

Teammates and Connections at FC Cincinnati

Kubo’s versatility jumps off the screen. He adapts, forms quick links with teammates, and helps FC Cincinnati snag big wins with steady performances.

Partnership with Luciano Acosta

Kubo and Luciano Acosta—now there’s a duo that gets it done. Kubo moves between forward and midfield, giving Acosta the space to drive attacks. When Kubo drops deeper, he’s got the vision to pick out Acosta right where defenses hate it most.

Their chemistry really paid off in that memorable match against Columbus Crew. Kubo delivered the game-winning assist for Acosta in a wild 3-2 finish. The two click best when Kubo links defense to Acosta’s creativity in the final third. You’ll see it most in tight games, with Kubo’s simple playmaking helping Acosta find room.

Key Stats Table:

Season	Kubo Assists to Acosta	Key Passes	Combined Goals (MLS)
2023	1	12	5

Synergy with Nick Hagglund

Kubo’s connection with Nick Hagglund is all about transitions and defensive backup. Hagglund, in the heart of defense, counts on teammates who can win the ball and get it moving forward. Kubo drops deep, intercepts passes, and pressures the opposition, making life easier for Hagglund and the back line.

When Hagglund plays the ball out, Kubo positions himself between the lines, breaking pressure and jump-starting attacks. Their understanding keeps turnovers low and the team organized, especially when things get frantic. Hagglund’s discipline and Kubo’s awareness keep the ball moving down the flanks or through the center.

These moments won’t always show up in the stats, but they’re huge for Cincinnati’s flow and stability.

Defensive Contributions and Tactical Impact

Yuya Kubo brings more than just offense. He’s constantly tracking back, winning the ball, and disrupting opponents—making him valuable in every phase.

Tackles Performed

Kubo drops into midfield often, timing his tackles with real anticipation. Unlike a lot of forwards, he’s active on defense, breaking up plays before they threaten the back line.

He chases down loose balls and stops easy passes for the other side. Here’s a quick look at some recent defensive stats:

Season	Appearances	Tackles Per Game	Interceptions Per Game
2023	25	1.3	0.7

Kubo’s willingness to defend sets him apart, especially when Cincinnati faces high-pressing teams. His tackling and support for teammates are a big part of his tactical value, and you see it again and again for FC Cincinnati.

Notable Stadiums and Match Venues

Kubo’s played all over MLS, and each stadium brings its own vibe. His performances on the road show just how adaptable he is, especially when the crowd’s buzzing.

Stade Saputo Appearances

He’s logged minutes at Stade Saputo, home of CF Montréal, more than once since joining Cincinnati. Playing here means dealing with a loud local crowd, tricky surfaces, and unpredictable weather. Stade Saputo’s tight sightlines crank up the pressure on visiting attackers.

In these matches, Kubo’s sharp passing and off-ball runs stand out. The atmosphere demands teamwork and split-second decisions. Here’s how he’s done lately at Stade Saputo:

Date	Opponent	Minutes Played	Key Stats
2023-05-13	CF Montréal	74	1 shot, 1 key pass
2024-07-24	CF Montréal	61	2 shots, 87% pass accuracy

Even with the noise and energy, Kubo delivers on the road. For more on his stats and career, check his official FC Cincinnati profile.

FC Cincinnati Rivals and MLS Opponents

Every year, FC Cincinnati squares off with plenty of tough MLS rivals. These matchups shape the standings and put Kubo’s attacking skills to the test.

Columbus Crew

This one’s always circled on the calendar—the “Hell Is Real” Derby versus Columbus Crew. It’s not just about soccer; it’s Ohio pride, fueled by two fired-up fan bases.

Columbus brings plenty of history and experience, and Cincinnati’s been pushing to match that intensity. Kubo often becomes the X-factor, finding space and driving the attack in these high-stakes games.

Columbus has the narrow edge in recent meetings, but Cincinnati’s closing the gap, thanks to better play and signings like Kubo. These games are all about individual brilliance, speed, and sharp defending.

Recent Results Table:

Date	Winner	Score
May 2023	FC Cincinnati	3-2
Oct 2023	Columbus Crew	2-0
Aug 2022	Draw	2-2

For more on this rivalry, check the Cincinnati Enquirer’s coverage.

Philadelphia Union

Philadelphia Union always brings a tough test. They’re organized, disciplined, and usually near the top of the East.

Cincinnati counts on creative guys like Kubo to break through Philly’s defensive wall. His off-ball movement and quick decisions can shake up the Union’s structure.

These games usually feature pressing and counterattacks. It’s a battle for midfield control and finding cracks in a well-drilled defense.

The energy is always high, and tactics matter. Cincinnati hasn’t always come out on top, but every matchup helps them improve.

New York City FC

Playing New York City FC at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field? That’s a different ballgame. The small pitch changes everything—defending, attacking, you name it.

Kubo’s agility and control in tight spaces become even more important. NYCFC moves the ball quickly and keeps opponents on their toes.

These matches often turn on a single mistake or a flash of finishing. Cincinnati tries to catch NYCFC when their fullbacks push up but needs to watch out for counters.

Lately, these games have been close—usually decided by a single goal. The little things really matter here.

CF Montréal

CF Montréal, another big conference rival, is known for physical play and quick transitions. Playing in Montreal means dealing with travel and sometimes wild weather.

Kubo’s role up front is key—he handles tight marking and wins duels, giving Cincinnati an edge. Montréal’s defense adjusts fast, so Kubo has to take his chances quickly.

These games often start cagey and open up late. Fast breaks and set pieces become crucial as the match goes on.

Results have been mixed, but Kubo’s presence is always felt. For the latest, check ESPN’s Yuya Kubo page.

Other Notable MLS Clubs Faced

Kubo has faced off with some of MLS’s toughest teams, always bringing something to the table. Whether it’s on defense or in attack, he shows his experience every time he steps out there.

San Jose Earthquakes

Let’s talk about Kubo against the San Jose Earthquakes—he just seems to get it, doesn’t he? You notice his tactical awareness right away, and he’s always ready to change things up if the game calls for it.

He finds those little pockets of space, slipping between defenders and making those sharp, clever passes. San Jose’s back line never really gets a break when he’s on the field.

Kubo usually takes on a balanced role against San Jose, linking up the midfield and the attack. You’ll see him pressing high, forcing defenders into mistakes, and honestly, his workrate jumps off the screen.

Sure, he doesn’t always score in these matchups, but let’s not kid ourselves—his impact runs way deeper than just goals.

Here’s a quick look at his recent games against San Jose Earthquakes:

Date	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
May 2023	0	1	75
August 2022	1	0	82

Kubo’s knack for influencing games against tough teams like San Jose often sets the tone for FC Cincinnati’s midfield.

Charlotte FC

When Kubo lines up against Charlotte FC, he makes his presence felt at both ends of the pitch. Charlotte plays with a ton of energy, so you need someone who can match that.

Kubo’s off-the-ball movement pulls defenders out of their comfort zones, giving his teammates more room to operate. On defense, he hustles back, slowing down Charlotte’s quick counters.

Sometimes he moves up as a forward, but he’s just as comfortable dropping back to help the midfield. That adaptability? It’s a game-changer.

Fans have noticed how calm he stays under pressure when Charlotte turns up the heat. He’s not always the main guy, but his steady play gives Cincinnati that little extra edge in close matches.

Inter Miami CF

Now, against Inter Miami CF, Kubo really shows up for the big moments. Miami’s got star power up front, so Cincinnati’s forwards have to stay sharp and disciplined.

Kubo jumps into pressing Miami’s defenders, especially when the pressure’s on. He’s quick to win the ball back and kickstart a counterattack.

His vision lets him connect the play, and these games move fast—physical, too. That’s when his stamina and positioning become even more important.

He’s had some highlight-reel moments against Miami, including a crucial assist and a few big defensive plays. You see why he’s so valuable in these tight, high-stakes matches.

Nashville SC

Nashville SC brings a tough, organized defense every time. They make you work for every chance, and Kubo’s sharp touches and smart runs can break through that wall.

These matchups turn into tactical chess matches. Kubo drops deep, picks up the ball, and keeps things moving between the lines.

He draws fouls, holds onto possession under pressure, and you can tell Nashville’s defenders get frustrated trying to contain him.

In those tense, late-game moments, Kubo’s calm helps Cincinnati keep their shape and manage the tempo, especially when Nashville’s midfield tries to turn up the physicality.

Fans and Matchday Experience

Every home game at TQL Stadium feels electric. Fans pack the stands hoping to catch a bit of magic from Yuya Kubo and the rest of FC Cincinnati.

Whether you’re there in person or catching the game from your couch, there’s just something special about Major League Soccer nights in Cincinnati.

Tickets and Match Access

Getting your hands on FC Cincinnati tickets? Honestly, it’s pretty simple. Prices shift depending on where you want to sit, who’s coming to town, and if there’s a special deal running.

The club’s official website lays out the ticket-buying process. They offer packages, group discounts, and family-friendly sections, which is a nice touch.

If you’re looking for tickets to a big game, keep an eye out for presale dates. You can still buy tickets at the stadium box office on matchday, but grabbing them early is usually smarter.

Digital tickets make getting into the stadium a breeze—just a quick scan and you’re in.

Quick Facts Table

Ticket Info	Details
General Admission	Available
Group Discounts	Available
Digital Ticketing	Yes
Box Office Sales	On matchday if available

The club makes sure fans with disabilities have what they need for a good experience. Check out their website for info on parking, stadium rules, or accessibility services.

Vivid Seats and Viewing Options

Can’t make it to the stadium? No problem. There are plenty of ways to catch the action.

Platforms like Vivid Seats let you buy resale tickets for those sold-out or hard-to-find games.

If you’re watching from home, FC Cincinnati games air live on several networks, and you can stream matches through apps or smart TVs. Radio broadcasts and highlight clips are up on the team’s official site.

Buying through Vivid Seats means you can pick your seat with an interactive map and get your tickets sent right to your phone. They even throw in buyer protection, so you don’t have to stress.

Streaming and TV schedules change, so check listings close to matchday to stay up to date.

Yuya Kubo Media and Highlights

Yuya Kubo’s made a real splash at FC Cincinnati. His technical skill and finishing touch have turned heads.

He’s put together a highlight reel that speaks for itself, showing off both his talent and his knack for coming through in big moments.

Videos and Highlights

Alright, let’s get right into it. If you want to check out Kubo’s top moments, you’ve got options. FC Cincinnati actually runs a dedicated video page with highlights—goals, assists, even those post-match interviews that sometimes reveal a bit more personality than you’d expect.

The videos really spotlight his quick decisions near the goal. You see him dart into open space, even when defenders close in. Under pressure, he doesn’t seem to panic—he just finds a way.

Now, if you caught his hat trick against the San Jose Earthquakes, you know that’s a performance people won’t forget soon. That game earned him MLS Player of the Matchday, and honestly, it felt deserved. The match clips show how cool he stays when it matters most.

For those who want the nitty-gritty, Facebook highlight videos break down his best technical plays. It’s not just about the goals—watch how he finishes, how he sets up his chances. There’s a lot to appreciate if you’re really watching.

Recent Game Stats

Date	Opponent	Goals	Assists	Minutes
June 15, 2024	San Jose Earthquakes	3	0	90