Picture Credits: Columbus Crew
Columbus will travel to historic Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck, Michigan as they open up their Lamar Hunt US Open Cup campaign. Columbus, currently on a three game losing streak, will look to right the ship with a victory Tuesday night. Head Coach Caleb Porter said in his pre-game availability that he would play some different guys, and that the team was leaving some first team players behind in Columbus.
How Did They Get Here
Major League Soccer clubs automatically move on to the third round of the Open Cup. Detroit City, on the other hand, had to play a second round game, which they would go on to beat the Michigan Stars of the National Independent Soccer Association 3-0. Detroit City would lead 14-3 on shots (6-0 SOG), and would have 67% of the possession throughout the match.
What To Expect
Different Squad
As aforementioned, Porter said that he will play different guys tomorrow. He said that he is going to use this as an opportunity for other guys to show they can be a part of the solution. He also said, like mentioned above, that the team was going to leave a number of first team players back in Columbus. Porter wants the opportunity to look at new guys, and will be looking for guys that may force their way into the first team squad.
Confidence
This is something that this team, as a whole, is lacking. Caleb Porter mentioned it after the loss to Orlando, that the team is just lacking confidence right now. Even though it may not have the normal first team, a win Tuesday night in Detroit could spark confidence throughout the club.
Projected XI
Prediction
This is going to be an intense game. Partially because it is a one and done type of game, but also, Detroit City os known for having a very passionate fanbase. With that said, and heavily rotated squad, I think Columbus scrapes out a win, though it will be very difficult. Columbus leave Detroit with a 2-1 win, and thus, takes momentum into this weekends game against Sporting KC.