COLUMBUS – It’s a different kind of “hell week” as the Columbus Crew fires up its fan base for Sunday’s “Hell Is Real” derby with in-state rival FC Cincinnati.
The Crew hosts FC Cincinnati at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Lower.com Field, the team’s 10th consecutive MLS sellout and 11th overall in 2023, both streaks representing all-time franchise records.
Among events scheduled during the days leading up to the match, the Crew will host its inaugural “Hell is Real” Pig Roast starting at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday prior to Crew 2’s “Heck is Plausible” derby against FC Cincinnati 2 at Historic Crew Stadium.
On match day, the Crew and supporters will “March to the Match” from Battelle Plaza to Lower.com Field at 5:30 p.m. where the group will then welcome the players during team arrivals at the West Lobby.
Starting 96 minutes before kickoff, fans can gather at The Pub and Chase Plaza for live music and food. Fans can cast their vote in the Hell is Real Hot Sauce Tasting Contest.
Food and drinks created especially for the derby include Donatos Hell is Real Pizza, Dirty Frank’s Hell is Real Dog and the Hell or High Water Cocktail, a tequila margarita with mango and strawberry complemented by cayenne and sprinkled banana cotton candy.
Events leading up to the match include the Columbus Crew Blood Drive Competition, presented by OhioHealth.