A scoreless deadlock in regulation gave way to a penalty kick shootout, and the sequence served as a worthy showcase for two U.S. men’s national team hopefuls in goal: Matt Freese of NYCFC and Cincinnati’s Roman Celentano.

Two other MLS Cup first-round series will finish Saturday. Charlotte FC managed for force a decisive third game against higher-seeded Orlando City. The game of the day will see Lionel Messi's Inter Miami host Atlanta United for a decisive Game Three in what has been a genuinely thrilling first-round series.

With both clubs winning their respective home matches in the first two legs of the first round, FC Cincinnati played hosts to New York City FC in match three. After 90 minutes and a nervy penalty kick shootout,