Picture Credits: DAZN
This is the game of the weekend in Major League Soccer. Austin FC, the place where previous Crew owner and current Austin owner Anthony Precourt tried to move the Columbus Crew. This will be the beginning of a new rivalry in MLS, and everyone should be here for it.
Previous Match
Columbus dropped all three points in there previous match on Wednesday to the Philadelphia Union. It was a game in which Columbus dominated in terms of possession and shots, but just could not capitalize in the final third. Although it resulted in a loss, this has to be seen as one of the performances of the season for the Crew, as they did everything right except for one mistake that the Union capitalized on, and the fact that the Crew just could not put the ball into the back of the net.
Predicted XI
Picture Credits: Lineup 11
Keys To The Match
Gyasi Continues To Find The Back Of The Net
In order for the Crew to win, Gyasi will have to continue to score. After scoring a brace in the win against Chicago, he was held in check in the loss to Philadelphia. In order for this team to be successful, Gyasi needs to be clinical in front of goal, and finish the chances that he has.
Backline Continues To Be Solid
Something that has gotten better as the season has gone on is the backline of the Columbus Crew. They Crew backline have stabilized after the rough start to the season with balancing CONCACAF Champions League and the start of the MLS season. They have only allowed four goals in their last five games, and only allowed seven goals in nine games to start the season.
Nagbe Continues To Control The Midfield
Darlington Nagbe is the motor of this team. The team goes as Nagbe goes. Nagbe helps police the backline and help cover them, while also getting forward in the attack. If Nagbe can take control of the midfield, the Crew will be just fine.
Lucas Zelerayan
Zelerayan is a game changer. Lucas can change the outcome of a game on his own, hence the NYCFC game earlier this season. Everything offensively goes through either Nagbe, as mentioned above, and Zelerayan. Lucas will create a few moments of brilliance, but it will all hinge on if the Crew can capitalize off of it.
Prediction
I believe the Crew will leave Q2 Stadium with all 3 points, though it will not be easy. The Crew will have to wether an early storm from Austin FC, and will have to come from behind to win. Columbus wins 2-1.