FC Cincinnati Adds Defenders to Roster for Champions Cup

Andrei Chirila and Bryan Dowd join the active roster on short-term deals ahead of tournament opener

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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FC Cincinnati have added defenders Andrei Chirila and Bryan Dowd to the club's active roster via short-term agreements ahead of the upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup Round One match. Both players were part of FC Cincinnati's preseason roster and will now be eligible to compete in the tournament opener against O&M FC.

Why it matters

The short-term additions provide FC Cincinnati with additional defensive depth and options as they prepare for the high-stakes Concacaf Champions Cup tournament. Bringing in players from the club's developmental squad can help strengthen the roster and provide opportunities for young talent.

The details

Chirila and Dowd were both part of FC Cincinnati's preseason training camp in Clearwater, Florida over the past month. Chirila made four appearances and started one match, helping the team keep a clean sheet. The short-term agreements mark the first time the two players will be rostered with the main FC Cincinnati squad for official competition.

  • FC Cincinnati announced the roster additions on February 18, 2026.
  • The team will face O&M FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One opener on Wednesday.

The players

Andrei Chirila

A defender who has been playing for FC Cincinnati 2, the club's developmental squad.

Bryan Dowd

A goalkeeper who has been playing for FC Cincinnati 2, the club's developmental squad.

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What’s next

FC Cincinnati will face O&M FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One opener on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The takeaway

By adding young talent from their developmental squad, FC Cincinnati is demonstrating a commitment to providing opportunities for up-and-coming players while also bolstering their roster depth ahead of an important tournament.