The update says Valenzuela is suspended after his red card against Columbus Crew. Otherwise, Pat Noonan is reported to have a healthy squad, giving Cincinnati more scope to choose from as they look to rebound from a 2-1 defeat to their rivals.
Kevin Denkey and Evander are both described in the report as double-digit scorers, providing an established attacking base. But squad availability alone will not erase the disappointment of conceding twice late in the first half against Columbus. Cincinnati need a sharper start and steadier defending to make their home advantage count.
The report also points to a home-heavy stretch, with eight of Cincinnati’s next 11 matches in all competitions at their own ground. A positive result could give that run an early lift.
San Jose’s reported table position is stronger: third in the Western Conference with 33 points, compared with Cincinnati’s 23 points and seventh place in the East. Recent form, however, complicates the picture. The update says Bruce Arena’s side have won just one of their past seven league matches.
Their reported results since the World Cup break include a 4-0 loss to Orlando City and a 1-1 draw with LA Galaxy. That run makes a response in Cincinnati important, even if the visitors’ place in the standings shows they have built a strong season overall.
Saturday’s match is Cincinnati’s final MLS fixture before Leagues Cup play begins, according to the update. For Noonan’s side, it is a chance to turn a near-full squad and a home-heavy schedule into momentum; San Jose will be looking to stop their league slide before the next stretch begins.