Picture Credits: BrotherlyGame.com
The Crew will look to bounce back from their first loss of the season as they travel to Subaru Park to take on the East leading Philadelphia Union. Columbus, who have scored the third most goals in Major League Soccer (Most in the East), will have to try and break down MLS's second best defensive team through the opening five matches.
Last Meeting
The last time these two teams met, Philadelphia left Subaru Park with a 3-0 victory, which diminished the playoff chances for the Crew. That game was pretty even, with Columbus holding more possession, and each team having 11 shots a piece (Philly led 6-3 SOG).
How To Watch
TV: ESPN+, Bally Sports Ohio
Where: Subaru Park, Chester, Pennsylvania
When: Saturday, April 9
Time: 6 p.m.
Predicted Starting XI
Projected Starting Lineup for Saturday evening.
Injury Report
Columbus
OUT: Kevin Molino (Knee), Aidan Morris (Foot), Isaiah Parente (Illness)
Questionable: Josh Williams (Thigh)
Philadelphia
OUT: NONE
Questionable: NONE
Picture Credits: Columbus Crew
Keys To The Match
Defend Set Pieces
This has been the kryptonite for the Columbus Crew throughout the past season and into this season. For some reason, Columbus seems to lose focus on set pieces, and has conceded a majority of their goals this way. The Crew have only conceded one goal through open play this season, and that came last week against Nashville SC.
Play Their Game
Caleb Porter mentioned after the lose to Nashville that Nashville imposed their will on the game. Columbus was forced to play the way Nashville wanted them to play after they scored, and that proved to be too much for Columbus to break down. If the Crew can get an early goal, and force Philly to play the way Columbus wants, that will bode well for Columbus.
Prediction
Columbus has not beaten Philly on their last three meetings, and has failed to score against them in their last three meetings, including 1-0 and 3-0 losses in their last two meetings. Columbus is looking to bounce back from a loss, in a game they should have won. I believe this game will end in a 1-1 draw, and Columbus will return to Columbus with a point.
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