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CINCINNATI (WKRC) - FC Cincinnati returns to TQL stadium after a long break for FIFA World Cup play, and leaders are offering free tickets to first-time fans.
The orange and blue take on Vancouver FC at 7:30 p.m. The match comes after a two-month break for World Cup matches.
FCC Chief Youth and Community Officer Kate Solomon said the time off from play wasn't a recess for the team's staff. Instead, they spent time appealing to new fans who enjoyed the international tournament.
"All of our staff were out in bars, participating in watch parties, connecting with fans, and those that were just falling in love with the game," Solomon said.
As World Cup interest grew, so did interest for Cincinnati's home team. Solomon said 20% of the crowd at the team's friendly match against Burnley FC on July 10 were new fans.
Dave Pidgeon traveled to Cincinnati from Lancaster, Pa. just for Wednesday's match.
"The momentum of watching that World Cup and the passion of the fans carries over," Pidgeon said. "I know myself and the other FC Cincinnati fans are really excited to get back into this. We've missed our team."
In a partnership with First Financial Bank, the team is offering free tickets to anyone attending their first FC Cincinnati match. An interest form can be filled out on the team's website.
