Game Info

Date: August 19, 2026 | Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field

Coverage Starts: 7:30 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 7:39 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 74° F, 5 mph winds W, chance of rain

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (English, Spanish, and French)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Neil Sika	Calen Carr
Apple TV Spanish	Carlos Suarez	N/A
Apple TV French	Frédéric Lord	Vincent Destouches
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Black	Black	Black	Orange
Montreal	White	Blue	White	Yellow

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Sekou Bangoura - Ankle (Out)
• Jamal Thiare - Lower Leg (Out

CF Montreal

• Frankie Amaya - Lower Body (Out)
• Wiki Carmona - Lower Body (Out)
• Josh-Duc Nteziryayo - Lower Body (Out)
• Bode Hidalgo - Lower Body (Out)
• Efrain Morales - Lower Body (Out)

Match Officials

• REF: Malik Badawi
• AR1: Nick Uranga
• AR2: Mike Nickerson
• 4TH: Sergii Demianchuk
• VAR: Edvin Juisevic
• AVAR: Craig Lowry

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : W D W W W(PK) L | Home Form: W L W W W W(PK)

Montreal : W D L L D D | Away Form: L L L D W L

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Regular Season	1-1 D	5/14/2025
MLS Regular Season	2-1 W	4/5/2025
MLS Regular Season	1-3 W	5/15/2024

Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

On Forward Chase Adams earning the start and scoring a goal and becoming the youngest scorer in Club history

“I don’t do any favors. Young or old, he deserved it. The timing was right. He did what we know he can do. Congrats. Now, he needs to confirm.”

On the Crew recovering to settle into the match after conceding two goals in the first 10 minutes of the match

“Yeah, a little bit shaky in the beginning of the game. We had no excuse because were prepared. We were aware. We lacked the emotional control to deal with those situations. That's a disappointment. Like you said, the way they reacted and took over afterwards, we thought that we had enough chances to come back to the game, but conceding the third, it becomes complicated.”

On Midfielder Daniel Gazdag

“Danny understands what we try to do. Obviously, there's chemistry with the players. He also provoked a couple of situations for us that are really interesting and a lot of things off the ball that we don't necessarily see all the time. Since he came back, he's been more aggressive and more impactful in the stuff that we try to do. He's real quick. He's an example so he gets minutes.”

On the status of Eric Bailly and Forward Gonzalo Tapia

“Eric is training with us and is slowly building himself up for collective team training. Tapia is going to be with us soon.”

Defender Brooks Lennon

On registering his first start and assist for the Crew tonight

“Yeah, it felt great to have my first start and assist with the Crew, and hopefully many more to come. Although it wasn't the result we wanted, I'm happy with the start and the assist.”

On recording the assist on Chase Adams’ goal which made him the youngest goalscorer in the Crew’s regular season history

“I didn't know that stat until you just said that. So, that's awesome for him. Congratulations to him. He deserves it. He works really hard in training. He's a young kid, so he's absorbing. Obviously, now bringing in Josef Martínez, one of the most goals in MLS history, so he'll be able to learn from him. So yeah, he's a great kid, and I'm happy for him.”

On how much of a vocal point to help settle the team after conceding two early goals

“I think going down early, especially that first 15 minutes, is not the way we want to be playing, and so I think we got together as a group and said we’ve got to be more on the front foot, start putting the ball in the box, getting some service into the box, and that's what we did, and that's what led to the goal, and that put us right back into the game going into halftime. So yeah, I think sometimes if you go down early, you’ve got to get together, regroup, come up with a way to break down the opponent and get back into the game, and that's what we did. And I thought in the second half we played much better than we did in the first half. We were all over them. I thought we had a lot of opportunities to score. It just wasn't our night.”

On the combination with Lautaro Giaccone and Chase Adams on the goal in all of their first starts with the Club

“Yeah, it's important. Obviously, when you come into the starting lineup, you want to make an impact. And those three guys that you just mentioned – me, Lautaro, and Chase – this is our first start for the Crew, and so to be able to link us three in the goal was something important for us, but also to the coaching staff to show to them that they can trust us from the start, and we're going to be very important players for this team.”

On linking back up with forward Josef Martínez

“Yeah, it's great. I have a very close connection with Josef. We had a lot of goals and assists in Atlanta. We have a really strong connection on the field and as well off the field. He's a great guy and I've been in the league for a while, but I continue to learn from a guy like that, with all the success that he's had. So yeah, he's a great friend of mine off the field, and like you said, like you saw tonight, we already had an instant connection. Unfortunately, he didn't score, but you know, I think that there's going to be a lot of service to him from me this season.”

On the chances he had tonight and what he saw

“Yeah, just try to put it on target. The ball kind of fell to me, and yeah, I thought I did a good job putting the ball low and hard, and I thought that the goalkeeper (Kristijan Kahlina) made a pretty good save. Unfortunately, like I said earlier, it wasn't our night in front of goal. But I thought the way that we played in the second half, breaking them down in certain moments was very good.”

Forward Chase Adams

On becoming the youngest goalscorer to score in the Crew’s regular season history

“It's surreal. It's what I've been trying to get to since I've come to Columbus. Obviously, not being from here, being able to get trusted by the Club to move here and be able to grow as a player and as a person with them and being able to start was a moment I won't forget the rest of my life. And then being able to score as well, I don't know if something's going to top that, obviously. But unfortunate, I think the main goal for all of us, though, was the result before any other record. So, that's what I'm more focused on.”

On what Laurent Courtois told his team after letting up two early goals

“For us, there was no change. Honestly, we are the Crew. We know how we want to play, and honestly, it was just him reminding us that how we're going to play might have some things that happen like that, and that he trusts us as players and as people to be able to push back and persevere. And I think after that, we really started to create chances when we didn't really change much. I don't think. I think we kept pushing and kept using the same systems and ideas that we wanted to. And I think the support and the confidence from coach really helped give us that, and obviously it was a rough start, but much better after that.”

On what the feeling was like to connect with other first-time starters for The Crew, Brooks Lennon and Lautaro Giaccone, for his goal

“I think that it was really fun. I think coach was really happy about that. I think there was a lot of faith shown, and I think all three of us have shown over these past two and a half weeks with Leagues Cup and matches before that that we're competing for those starting spots and the trust that coach has put into us to be able to apply it into a game has been really helpful and a big confidence booster for all three of us.”

On what it has been like to come up the ranks of The Crew and how it translates to his game

“Yeah, it's the Crew system, the Crew DNA, kind of how we want to play. We're not going to deviate from that, no matter who we're going against or how it's going. We are who we are, and trying to show the type of football we want to play really helps players such as me and Taha (Habroune) and a bunch of other guys like Tristan (Brown) and Owen (Presthus) who have come through the Academy and through this like team for the First Team really helped integrate when we get here that we can truly show what level we have and not having to figure out different systems and different coaches and being able to truly just go out there and play and be comfortable.”

Game Info

Date: August 15, 2026 | Venue: Bank of America Stadium

Coverage Starts: 7:30 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 7:39 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 86° F, 2 mph winds N, chance of rain

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (English and Spanish)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Tony Husband	Ross Smith
Apple TV Spanish	Nacho Garcia	N/A
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Black	Black	Black	Purple
Charlotte	Light Blue	White	White	Green

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Sekou Bangoura - Ankle (Out)
• Jamal Thiare - Lower Leg (Out

Charlotte FC

• Nimfasha Berchimas - Lower Body (Out)
• Aron John - Upper Body (Out)
• Harry Toffolo - Lower Body (Out)

Match Officials

• REF: Filip Dujic
• AR1: Adam Wienckowski
• AR2: Ben Pilgrim
• 4TH: Ricardo Montero Araya
• VAR: Younes Marrakchi
• AVAR: Tom Felice

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : L W D W W W(PK) | Away Form: W L L L D D

Charlotte : D W L W W L | Home Form: W W D W W L

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Regular Season	3-2 L	5/24/2025
MLS Regular Season	4-2 W	5/3/2025
MLS Regular Season	1-1 D	7/17/2024

2009 Class

Prince Forfor (#13 - #48 overall)

"Forfor is one of the fastest players in the youth pool and he uses that athleticism well in his one-on-one defending. He uses that pace to overlap in the final third and can find a good cut-back pass when the opportunity presents itself."

2010 Class

Jamil Danjaji (#4 - #24 overall)

"Danjaji’s burst in his first 10 yards is truly elite. He does his best work running behind back lines, but his ability to combine and hold up is improving as his his first touch and close control and work rate against the ball."

2011 Class

Immanuel Adewunmi (#9)

"Adewunmi has an incredible feel for playing in crowded spaces within the midfield, with excellent spacial awareness, touch and passing range. He has a lot of physical development in front of him and when that part matures, he could be a top five prospect in this class."

Leo Woehl (#13)

"Woehl is deadly in transition and when things in front of him are simple. He has great pace, and ball striking ability, but needs to improve against a low block."

Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

On Inter Miami CF’s first goal by Luis Suárez off the turnover

“We know his savviness, cheekiness. He's a world-class player, and any type of mistakes, he already has the next play in his head. I asked my guys to try a lot of things. Obviously, we were aware of not losing the ball in those areas, but that's also the style of play that we want to have. We can't have it both ways. I want to give my guys this liberty and freedom to do it. Sometimes it's not going to work. We know we wanted to avoid that situation today, but the guy's corrected it and we get a point in a difficult environment.”

On Midfielder Brais Méndez scoring on a set piece in his MLS debut after entering as a sub

“We just saw glimpses of what he's capable of doing with his left foot but also with his IQ. He just needs to build his fitness up, be aware of the system and get to know his compañereos, his teammates. his teammates. Just class.”

On the confidence Méndez’s goal in only 29 minutes provides the Crew to continue to create and convert opportunities, especially against a club like Miami

“You try to have a style of play to create special moments, and you want to put the players in those special moments over and over so they can make a play. This happened tonight, and hopefully, more to come."

On how the Crew midfield performed tonight, especially with multiple substitutions, players making their debut and Midfielder Max Arfsten unavailable for selection tonight

“I thought the guys – whether it was building up through the lines or more finding the space behind the last line, that could have been exploited even more – had numerous interesting sequences between the lines. It's Miami in front of us, but we can be more clinical on the box; it will come with more work.”

On how the Crew performed defensively and dealing with fatigue in the final 20 minutes in a tough, hot road environment

“Yeah, we were struggling. They were pushing hard. We had a little bit of tightness in the legs. It's a lot of minutes for some guys that still need to be back to their full level. On top of that, we integrated three new players today (Méndez and Midfielders Lautaro Giaccone and Brooks Lennon). We'll find a way, and we slowly are building us up stronger every game.”

On the Crew creating additional chances tonight that the side was unable to convert

“Yeah, we can improve our competition play, whether it's wide or entries in the box. The way we attack the spaces on service and the type of service, we're not the biggest team so crossing the ball in the box for a header is not going to be always an option for us. We need to find and come up with other solutions, but the way we were able to create those gaps and manipulate the opposition were really, really interesting. We just need to be more clinical on really the last micro movements, I would say, just to create separation and get a good angle of shots.”

On the confidence gained earning a point at Miami tonight while preparing for the rest of the MLS season, Leagues Cup 2026 and the US Open Cup, including as the team integrates new players to the squad

“Listen, the work that those guys put in training and everything, whether it's volume, sprints, effort, quality or open mindedness because of the stuff that I asked them to try out on the ball… I don't even think that they have reached their top yet, believe it or not. We can certainly be more dangerous on the last third. Everything that is prior to that, I'm a really big fan of what the guys are doing. We'll keep trying to maintain what's good and try to adjust what we're missing a little bit.”

On how Inter Miami CF’s Lionel Messi changed the dynamics of the match in the second half and how the Crew prepared for that adjustment

“You can't really stop Messi; you just try to create an environment and references to the players to limit his action. Having (Midfielder) Sekou (Bangoura) injured because I wonder if it was the other way around if it would have been a red card. Having Sekou injured like this and not be able to move so we were almost 10 men against a fresh Messi so it's not easy. The guys grinded it out and tried to concede really little, and we're really proud of them today.”

Captain and Midfielder Sean Zawadzki

On Midfielder Brais Méndez’s performance and goal in the MLS debut

“Obviously, kind of his insertion into the game, you saw the qualities he has when he had the ball, being able to pick any pass and then obviously the goal. He puts the ball in a perfect spot, and if no one touches it, it's going back in net like it did. I think you just see his quality right off the bat. You know that when you give him the ball, something spectacular can happen at any given moment. To have a player like that, it allows you to even have a little bit more confidence on the field in knowing that someone can pull something off like that.”

On the challenges defending Inter Miami CF’s Luis Suarez

“I just think his experience, he knows the game and his movements are really good, whether it's checking in, connecting with the guys underneath him or peeling off the back shoulder up of the center backs. His movement is really good and makes it really difficult for defenders. Obviously, you want to kind of throw him off in any moment you can, but it's really difficult. He's experienced it at all different levels so he knows how to kind of maneuver you and kind of bait you a little bit. I think you saw that in his ability to create some chances.”

On how the Crew defense recalibrated after conceding a couple unconventional chances and goals

“Obviously in the first half, like you said, there were some weird goals, but I think, as a collective, with the ball we had obviously some dicey moments, but I think we had the confidence to keep playing. We knew that our chances were going to come. It was how can we be organized when we attack, kind of prevent them on the counterattack and then protect the middle. Obviously, you know the quality that they have in the middle and the ability to combine and play around and create some chances. No matter how much you prepare for it and how much you kind of defend, it's bound to happen at some point so I think limiting that was the best we could do. Everyone knew that, but I think the confidence and the ability to be like, ‘Alright, we're going to defend. We're going to work, but when we get the ball, we're also going to show our quality and then make them defend and make life difficult for them so when they do have the ball, it's not the ability for them to feel as confident and go, go, go. How can we have the ball and put them on their back foot, make them defend a little bit and make them a little bit more tired?’”

On how the Crew’s defensive scheme changed when Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi entered the game

“Obviously, it's someone you know his quality no matter what. Defensively, obviously when you have the ball, you have to always know where he's at. He's going to stay high. They win the ball, they're looking for him and then they're running. It was trying to minimize his ability to kind of get on the ball and drive. Like I said before, with the quality of the players they have, it's bound to happen at some point so when it does happen, how can we minimize it? I think we did that pretty well for the most part. Obviously, there's a chance or two from him, and (Goalkeeper) Patrick (Schulte) makes some big time saves to keep the draw. I think it’s always knowing where he's at on the field and you know at any given moment he can pull off some magic, for us to know that and being able to defend and then work even harder, knowing what he's capable of.”

On building the Crew’s confidence with tonight’s draw heading into Leagues Cup while also integrating new players into the squad

“It's huge. I think you have guys who have been here for a little bit, and how can you try and make the new guys make that transition as seamless as possible. I think the guys who've come in so far it's been great. They've integrated really well with the team and have fit right in. It's been great. You saw that tonight. You saw three debuts, and it's incredible. We don't skip a beat. It seems like they've been here for a while. It's been great to have the new guys, and how can we continue to integrate them even better and make things seamless and continue to flow? Now, it's stack results. We have League Cup coming up and it's a different type of thing, but when we get back to the league, at the same time, it's putting results back together and how can we climb up the table and put ourselves in a good position coming the end of the season.”

On how the Crew prepared to put the side in a good position for tonight’s match and gain momentum late in the second half to secure a draw against a tough team

“At the end of the day, it is just stress our quality at the same time. Obviously, you know who's across from you, you know the qualities they have but we have players that are just as good. How can we be able to express ourselves on the field and make them work defensively and put them in tough positions and put them in uncomfortable positions, as well, so then when they get the ball, maybe they're not as willing to go and they've been working hard defensively? I think having that momentum and putting them on their back for a little bit helped us in the long run.”

Midfielder Brais Méndez

On scoring 20 minutes into his MLS debut

“I am very happy about my debut and the goal. I think the team played a good game in a tough place to play. This is the way we want to continue. We want to keep this strong run going and earn wins to continue to move up in the table.”

On staying focused against a strong Inter Miami CF side while away from home

“I think we needed to have respect but never be scared. It doesn’t matter who we have in front of us, we need to play our game. The way that this team plays, it’s normal, and we have a lot of personality to do things right like we showed today. This is the way we want to continue. We want more. We are going to get back to work to fix our mistakes and earn the victories to continue to move forward.”

On how he is adjusting after joining the team and how happy he is to be a part of the Crew

“From the start, the team has made me feel like I am part of the family. They have received me well since the first day, even before the transfer was done. I really wanted to join the team. Everyone at the Club was very attentive towards me, and that makes me feel happy and important, which is what every player wants. I am very happy to be here, and I hope to achieve big things for this Club.”

Game Info

Date: August 1, 2026 | Venue: Nu Stadium

Coverage Starts: 7:30 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 7:39 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 85° F, 6 mph winds S, slight chance of rain

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (English and Spanish)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Max Bretos	Brian Dunseth
Apple TV Spanish	Ramses Sandoval	Miguel Gallardo
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Black	Black	Black	Orange
Miami	White	White	White	Blue

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)

Inter Miami CF

• (Added at 9am) German Berterame - Head, Concussion Protocol (Out)
• Ian Fray - Suspension- Yellow Card Accumulation (Out)
• Telasco Segovia - Suspension- Yellow Card Accumulation (Out)
• Maxi Falcon - Leg (Questionable)
• Gonzalo Lujan - Leg (Questionable)
• Sergio Reguilon - Hamstring (Questionable)

Match Officials

• REF: Tori Penso
• AR1: Brooke Mayo
• AR2: Corey Rockwell
• 4TH: Marcos DeOliveira II
• VAR: Jose Carlos Rivero
• AVAR: Claudiu Badea

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : L D W W L W | Away Form: W W L L L D

Miami : W W W W W W | Home Form: D D L W W W

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Regular Season	5-1 L	5/31/2025
MLS Regular Season	0-1 L	4/19/2025
MLS Regular Season	2-3 L	10/2/2024

Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

On the end of tonight’s match

“Something stupid happened and then guys got a little bit heated. That happens.”

On what he said to the team after the match, including anything specific to the way the match ended

“I didn’t speak about what happened. I spoke about the game and their mix of resilience, sticking to the plan and quality and their fighting spirit, also. All this mixed that we wanted to make sure to be consistent every game. Sometimes it's going to work and sometimes not but to not question the things that we try to do together based on the narrative or the score.”

On Midfielder Taha Habroune suffering the late foul that resulted in a red card and if Habroune was injured

“No injury, no. As you saw the kick, it's pretty bad.”

On the importance of the Crew scoring two goals late in the first half to enter the break leading 2-1

“Yeah, it was really important for sure. This is a game of emotion for sure, but also, are we doing the stuff that we agree that we are going to put in the position to succeed or do we let go one or two plays or doubting because now we're chasing? Those are the stuff that I try to track more and try to get the attention away from only the result.”

On Midfielder Daniel Gazdag’s performance tonight and scoring in back-to-back matches and how that has allowed Gazdag to improve and gain more confidence

“Yeah. We spoke and I have been telling him that he's been reinforcing what he was doing well and he's bringing a little bit of a bite and recognizing in the last third in general and be more present, more aggressive and more aware of the options that I like him to think about in those phases of the game. Really deserved it.”

On if he enjoyed his first Hell is Real Derby match as head coach

“Oh, yeah, it was incredible.”

On if tonight showed the team is making progress in the things he’d like to see from the Club

“I've seen those things before, but it's hard to talk about it when you lose to NYC or after Atlanta and NYC in the U.S. Open. There's so many of those moments that happen, too, but it's easy after a little break or one loss that the attention shifted a little bit, but I'm going to be objective with those guys. The stuff that we think today was good, they were already there. Now today maybe a little bit with consistency and we got the results… Yes [reinforcement with that], for sure. A step forward in the fact that we were chasing, we came back and we really applied what we said that we would do. Even in tough moments like they're such tall, big guys [on their] team that we on those long balls at the end and we had to dig a little bit more. A lot of positive aspects. In that sense, you're right it's a step forward.”

On the red card to end the match and the commotion in the tunnel after the final whistle

“Soccer is a game of emotion, obviously. I hope the player (FC Cincinnati Midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela) regrets what he did. It’s not a good. It's not good.”

On the Crew seeming to maintain control of the match in the second half after securing the 2-1 advantage in the first half

“I didn't feel that they were going to break us down. Only at the very last few minutes where there's a ball behind (Midfielder) Hugo (Picard) and (Defender) Mate (Amundsen), I believe on the floor, that's one of the few times that we got broken down. Other than that, we knew it was going to either be one transition, set piece or a ball in the box with the tall guys. We felt solid. What I like with this group is that we have a lot of reserves that also are close to the starting lineup. Right away when they came in, they maintained or raised the level so that was positive.”

On Midfielder André Gomes entering after halftime and adding a calm, veteran presence

“It's a different IQ and a quality, quality soccer player. The demand of this league is demanding, but not only he's doing that but also the technical ability of reading the game is just another level.”

On if the way the team rallied together for each other at the end of the match provides another opportunity to strengthen their bonds

“You gotta have your teammates’ back. Do what you gotta do.”

On playing at Inter Miami CF next week before playing in Leagues Cup

“It's far. It's far. I'm learning, but I struggle to move past the next day in some way. We'll see. Like I said, there's me and how I function where I'm really day by day, but you also have a table where you try to put a puzzle together where potential association of when people are going to be fit already. We try to play with that a little bit. We'll see. It's going to be rough between the traveling and the back-to-back games, but it's going to be hard for everyone.”

On Forward Jamal Thiaré’s jumping ability and scoring on a header tonight

“He has abilities. The stuff that he has, you can't teach, right? The jumping, the change of gear. We try to synchronize our relationship so he understands the timing of the stuff that I want him as a No. 9 to do, especially with his characteristics. The jump that he can do is just a different level.”

On it appearing the Crew have solidified their identity once again

“Oh, thank you. I'm really proud. I want this club to be recognized for what it’s done and what it can do in the future. When I hear those words, of course, I feel great because we want to win but we want to win a certain way. That's really cool. I was also really pleased today because that was (Assistant Coach) Shannon's (Murray) first win, too. On the PK that we got, he put in and assisted a lot on those little combination plays on top of the box. I was pleased for him, and I was pleased for (Assistant Coach) Josh Williams who had his first goal as a set piece coach. Yeah, a good night.”

Defender Mohamed Farsi

On what happened in the play that led to a red card and post-match

“We were a bit frustrated of what happened on the field. You know, the way that he(Gerardo Valenzuela) hit Taha (Habroune), I think it was just vicious. At the end of the day, we all play the same sport. I know it's a derby, but he needs to have some sportsmanship. And going like this, if you want to make a foul, grab him and put him down, but don't try to break his leg. So I just find this vicious, and after in the tunnel, nothing really happened. I mean, it's not the image that we want to show to young kids who watch us, but at the end of the day, we try to protect our players from some vicious play like that, some dangerous plays.”

On how this situation could help the locker room come together even more and using it as motivation in the second half of the season

“Yeah obviously, we’re all in this together, so we have to stand up for each other, whatever is on the field or outside the field, protect each other. So yeah, I don't want to say that, but that's good that the guys stand up for each other. Especially, (Taha Habroune) is a young guy. So, we try to protect him. I'm proud of the guys, but like I said, it's not the image that we want to show to young kids.”

On if the Gerardo Valenzuela said anything to him and on the scuffle in the tunnel area

“No, he didn't. In the tunnel, I didn't see him. He wasn't there, so it was just a bunch of people trying to calm down the situation. It didn't go far. Nothing happened.”

On being able to play a Hell is Real derby after being injured in 2025

“Yeah, it's always nice to play those kind of games. The fans tonight showed up. It was an unbelievable atmosphere. So, every time we play Cincinnati, just a different atmosphere. So, thanks to them for coming and giving us energy that helped us a lot tonight.”

On keeping the momentum going into the game against Inter Miami CF and leading into Leagues Cup 2026

“Yeah, I think what we did today, that's very good for the rest of the season. We needed a little something, maybe to wake up. So no, we respected the game plan. We played it all together. We ran for each other. We fought for each other. So, very proud of the guys.”

Midfielder Daniel Gazdag

On his mindset after scoring in back-to-back games

“Yeah, of course. The most important thing is that we won this big game. It was really important for us, especially after down 0-1. I think we fought really good, and it gives a lot of confidence to me and to the team as well.”

On his relationship with Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

“Yeah, of course. We are working every day on things that we want to do in the games, and I think also today we have done a lot of things that we practiced in actions. I think we had really good actions today. We had some chances. I think we could have caught even more goals, so I think we had a good game.”

On how the attack was different compared to Wednesday’s game against NYCFC

“Yeah, I think against New York, we've been maybe it's not the right word, but a little bit shy. We haven't been aggressive enough in the offensive part of the field. Today we changed that a little bit and we created more chances and more shots on goals.”

On the emotions of the team after the late red card against FC Cincinnati

“Yeah, I mean it was a crazy tackle against Taha (Habroune), and obviously when something like this happens, the whole team step up for him, and I mean it's already a game, a big derby, so everyone is a little bit more pushed or something like that. So I think that was maybe a little bit more than normal, but I think we handled it good.”

On if he had seen what happened in the hallway after the game

“No, I haven't been there.”

On how important it was for the team to have each other's back

“Yeah, it's very important. It shows how good this locker room is. After the tackle, you could see immediately everyone was running in. Even the guys that were on the bench already, was kind of running there and try to save our teammates and each other. So I think it's not a good thing to have something like this, like a tackle like this, but it showed how good this team is and how we are together all the time.”

On the back and forth he had with FC Cincinnati Goalkeeper, Roman Celentano, after his PK

“Yeah, I had a few PK against him in the first few years, and even before the PK, he was talking to me, but he didn't get it right, so I just told him.”

On what he thinks about the tackle that drew the red card at the end of the match

“Yeah, to be honest, I wasn't on the field, but from outside, it looked really bad. I think obviously it's a red card immediately. It shouldn't be on the field. It should never happen, something like this.”

On how good it feels to be a part of the Hell is Real Derby and beat FC Cincinnati

“Yeah, it's amazing to play on these derbies. Today before the game, I even told Taha (Habroune) that when I got here, I was actually surprised how good the atmosphere on these games, and it was amazing today again. The fans showed up, and we just wanted to give it back on the field, and we fought till the end.”

Midfielder Taha Habroune

On getting fouled at the end of the match

“I mean, the game was basically over. I think they knew they lost, and it was just a lack of class, honestly. You can't not know how to how to lose. It's normal, everyone loses, but I understand if you kind of just try to pull me down or take me down, but a tackle like that is crazy. Honestly, I couldn't believe it.”

On his teammates rushing over to defend him after the foul

“It means a lot to me, honestly. You know, we're like a family here, and to see them all stick up for me, especially as one of the younger guys, it means so much, and I love all these guys.”

On the emotion that comes with a rivalry game

“Yeah, I mean it's a rivalry. I grew up here in Columbus, and I know what it's like to watch these games and the emotion just from watching these games, and to actually play in one and to beat them at home in front of our fans is an unbelievable feeling.”

On if tonight’s match was one of the crazier Hell is Real Derbies he’s played in

“I wouldn't say the craziest one. I would say the craziest one is probably at home from the playoffs last year, but it was definitely crazy for sure.”

On how he is feeling physically after the foul

“I still have some pain in my leg, but you know, I have to go see the trainers and get it checked out, so I'm not sure right now, but some pain for sure.”

On what he said to his teammates after they defended him

“I'm super, super grateful for them. I'm thankful, but you know, even if it was me, an older guy, anyone, we would do the same thing for anyone, so it's almost expected from each and every one of us.”

On how tonight’s win can be a springboard for the team moving forward

“We could use it for sure. You know, we got some new guys coming in to help us out, but you know to beat Cincinnati, our rivals at home is very good for us right now.”

On the counter opportunities the Crew had in tonight’s match

“Honestly, for me, the whole match was fun. I felt like we controlled the game the whole time, and we had a majority of the chances, so they didn't really create much. I would say for me, especially, and all the guys probably think the same thing, but we had fun out there for sure.”

Game Info

Date: July 25, 2026 | Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field

Coverage Starts: 7:15 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 7:24 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 82° F, 6 mph winds W

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (English and Spanish), FS1 (English)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Jake Zivin	Taylor Twellman
FS1 English	Josh Eastern	Lloyd Sam
Apple TV Spanish	Sammy Sadovnik	Diego Valeri
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Yellow	Black	Yellow	Blue
Cincinnati	White	Orange	White	Purple

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Andre Gomes - Thigh (Questionable)
• Brooks Lennon - Groin (Questionable)

FC Cincinnati

• None

Match Officials

• REF: Allen Chapman
• AR1: Andrew Bigelow
• AR2: Jeffrey Swartzel
• 4TH: Chris Penso
• VAR: Carol Anne Chenard
• AVAR: Robert Schaap

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : L L D W W L | Home Form: W W L W W L

Cincinnati : W D L D W W | Away Form: L D D W D D

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Playoffs Round 1	2-1 L	11/8/2025
MLS Playoffs Round 1	4-0 W	11/2/2025
MLS Playoffs Round 1	1-0 L	10/27/2025

Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

On comparing tonight’s match with the previous two contests against New York City FC in the MLS regular season and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

“Well, we lost. I’m going to talk about exactly what I told the guys. It's raging to concede the way we conceded because except from those two events, I don't think were in much danger. Let's say it's 0-0, it's not what we wanted to have. Yes, I love the control the guys have. It's incredible, and every day we love trying new things on the board, but the whole point is creating chances. We haven't been dangerous enough the way we want to be in the first half or ambitious enough. We were a little bit off transitioning. The same way against Burnley in the friendly, only in the second half we came with a little bit more bite, more directness and more intention, and then we concede a goal at the worst timing. A little bit of disappointment in the lack of capacity to be dangerous earlier in the game and position ourselves maybe in a different way.”

On how much the Crew are expecting from recent transfers who have yet to join the team as visa’s are secured, including Designated Player and Midfielder Brais Méndez who arrived to Columbus today

“[Méndez] arrived just today. Have to check where he's at physically. I was able to say hi, and that's the second time that I interacted with him. The first time a while ago, I noticed how motivated and eager [he is] to [be part of] this project. Same thing today. I believe he's going to be someone that I'm going to have to slow down. He wants to go a little bit faster, wants to contribute and wants to win, and we need that.”

On the balance building the Crew lineup today and incorporating players who were away, missed time due to injury or will join the team soon

“A couple of guys coming back from injuries. (Midfielder) Max (Arfsten) and Stevie (Defender Steven Moreiera) coming back from the World Cup. We're going to incorporate the new guys soon. It is a little bit of juggling in that sense, but I bet it's the case for every team.”

On Arfsten’s performance tonight, including committing the foul that led to the penalty kick, and if Arfsten’s mindset may have been impacted by the World Cup experience, transfer rumors and other factors

“He seemed fine to me. We spoke, and he was ready to go and ready to contribute. Of course, the first event of the game [with the penalty] is something that he feels really bad on him and I know he carries on his shoulder, but we want to move on. I keep telling them since Day 1 that we'll see who we are once we face our first obstacle. Today was one so let's see how he reacts and how we react as a group.”

On if the two games in four days against NYCFC tonight and FC Cincinnati on Friday factored into tonight’s lineup and player rotation

“Yeah, it is a factor but really not so much. I really wanted to position the guys in a way that I thought was the most adequate on that moment based on form and the complementarity between lines or little duos. I try to put the best lineup possible that I thought would give us the best chance to win the game.”

On if younger Crew players playing significant minutes played a factor in the team not creating as many chances as desired

“(Crew 2 Midfielder) Tarun (Karumanchi) is somebody that deserved the start. He has a huge march to progress, but he could show some glimpses of what he's capable of. You’re going to start, you gotta start someday. We’re all good and proud in that sense. Like I said, Stevie is coming back. With the heavy World Cup, we wanted to be cautious and be mindful of that. Reintegrating (Defender) Malte (Amundsen) (Forward) Jamal (Thiaré) and (Midfielder) Dylan (Chambost) after the little obstacles that they had was positive.”

On Goalkeeper Patrick Schulte making multiple saves, including a stretch of three in one series, and Midfielder Daniel Gazdag scoring a penalty

“The important player has to make plays in decisive moment, and that's what they did today. My job is to try to put them in those moments with consistency, and they need to show up and be the best versions of themselves.”

On if he expects young players like Karumanchi and Forward Chase Adams to receive more regular minutes or if it’s more of a function of veteran players not being available tonight

“It's undeniable that we see a lot of value in them. It's also similarly true that when more veteran experienced players are going to play, it's going to be a little bit more trickier to integrate them as I did today, but that's part of the job of trying to find the right balance, still be competitive and get where we want to be in terms of results and titles.”

On Midfielder André Gomes’ status and if the Crew expected him to be available tonight

“The idea was for him to give him the proper load in terms of exposure physically so he can perform at the highest level the next coming week.”

Goalkeeper Patrick Schulte

On the overall feeling from the team following the loss

“Not great. Obviously, we play the sport to win, and obviously we weren't able to do that, so doesn't feel great.”

On the differences of this loss compared to the losses that the team had earlier in the season

“No. I think individual performances were there. I think there's just moments that as a collective that we can be better at. Whether that's, starting with me, my one-time balls, my clearances need to be better. My communication, my leadership overall needs to be better. And I think it's just more accountability on ourselves.”

On making three saves in a row in one play and then conceding a goal a couple minutes after

“Yeah, it takes a lot out of you because you don't want to concede ever. So obviously, I would have loved to save that one as well. So, it definitely kills. And especially, I think at the time of the game, I think we were starting to kind of get that momentum and feel like that goal was coming. So, yeah, I would have loved to make it four in a row.”

On New York City FC’s second half goal

“Long ball in-behind, and Rudy (Camacho) did a good job initially shielding the guy (Talles Magno) out, to be fair, he made a made a good play, a cheeky play on him to poke it away and in that moment, we were very spread out. And yeah, I just took a quick glance, saw that they had a guy free and tried to scramble across the goal. But yeah, it was, to be fair, a good play on their part.”

On making plays happen sooner rather than later in the match

“Yeah, I think just not waiting for the coach to give us some guidance, give us some leadership going forward, and be accountable on ourselves to lead the group when we're out there on the field.”

On being a leader in the locker room for the rest of the team

“Yeah, it's not easy at times, but just trying to be a leader and lead this locker room. We had some guys that made their debuts or young guys that are in and around the First Team more than they ever were. So, just trying to be a role model, be a leader within the group and lead them to understand the standard that we set in years prior.”

Midfielder Max Arfsten

On the team’s performance

“Yeah, disappointing. Obviously disappointing collectively, but individually as well. I obviously didn't want to concede that penalty, but yeah, just unfortunate all around. But proud of how we fought in the second half for the most part.”

On his mindset going into tonight’s matchup after returning from the World Cup and rumors of a transfer

“Yeah, I mean, there's no excuse for anything really. I was still ready to play, and I was fully mentally prepared. I don't view that as an excuse. It's more just I need to play better, in my opinion.”

On if this loss is different to losses under ex-head coach, Henrik Rydstrom

“I think it's hard to compare. It's different coaches, but I feel like we have good ideas. For the most part, it's just execution and a bit more relentlessness, I'd say with and without the ball.”

On the inexperienced lineup and what he does to be a leader

“Yeah, I mean to be honest, I think all of our younger guys played really well tonight, for the most part. But I mean, for me, it's just if they have any questions, I'm there for them and trying to lead by example and through my actions and things like that, but I mean, I'm proud of them. Obviously, this season has been a bit hectic with coaching change and the big break and everything. So it's never going to be perfect, but like I said, it's not an excuse, and we definitely need to be better.”

On if there was a lack of match fitness between both teams following the World Cup break

“Yeah, I would say so for sure. I mean, other than the guys who played a lot of minutes in the World Cup for, I'd say two months, you're not really playing matches week in and week out, and no matter how hard you train, it's impossible to match that match fitness. So yeah, I definitely agree with that.”

On how quickly he flushes out tonight's loss ahead of Saturday’s match against Cincinnati

“Yeah, hopefully tomorrow morning. We're allowed to be sad tonight, but I mean you have to move on. It was disappointing, but you have to move on.”

Midfielder Tarun Karumanchi

On the expectations for him when he joined the team and the setbacks from his injury

“My role was just going to preseason and kind of prove myself, and I thought I had a pretty good preseason. Henrik (Rydström) showed some trust in me, and then I ended up fracturing my ankle towards the end of preseason. So, the past few months was just trying to recover and try to get back to where I was, and I'm glad to have made my debut today.”

On conversations with Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois and where he sees him fitting in the lineup

“Yeah, Laurent saw me in preseason, so I had a good relationship with him going into it. He just thought that this would be a good opportunity for me to go into the squad because some guys aren't here, and I was performing well in training, so I'm just really happy that he gave me this opportunity.”

On approaching this chance to prove himself while waiting for new players to join the team

“I'm not sure to be honest, but I'm just glad that I've gotten this opportunity and just trying to build off it. First game, so hopefully I can get more of these opportunities to kind of prove myself and hopefully eventually be on the team.”

On how fast everything has happened since joining the team

“Honestly, it's been pretty fast. I set high expectations for myself coming into it because I had confidence in myself. But to be back from injury and then playing some minutes in preseason and then coming in right away and starting for the first game, it happened very fast, but I'm really grateful for it.”

On what he learned from tonight’s experience and how to find a grove in the match earlier

“Yeah, for me, it's just as a defensive midfielder, trying to like control the tempo of the game. So listening, taking advice from (Patrick Schulte) in the back line, and really trying to listen to what they're saying and execute it in the game. I think maybe I could have done that more in the first half and, learning experience. So, I'm excited to keep going.”

On the biggest piece of advice he’s learned from the veterans on the team

“I would say it’s be patient and take advice from everybody around you because these guys have been doing it for a while. They played numerous games, 100 games plus. So just kind of listen to them and really just focus on my game as well.”

Game Info

Date: July 22, 2026 | Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field

Coverage Starts: 7:30 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 7:39 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 71° F, 7 mph winds N

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (for real this time I promise) (English and Spanish)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Jessica Charman	Ian Joy
Apple TV Spanish	Raul Guzman	N/A
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Yellow	Yellow	Yellow	Blue
NYCFC	Navy	White	Navy	Green

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Brooks Lennon - Groin (Out)
• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Andre Gomes - Thigh (Questionable)

NYCFC

• Drew Baiera - Leg (Out)
• Raul Gustavo - Leg (Out)
• Mac Learned - Leg (Out)
• Alonso Martínez - Leg (Out)
• Maxi Moralez - Leg (Out)
• Aiden O’Neill - Leg (Out)
• Kevin O’Toole - Leg (Out)
• Keaton Parks - Leg (Out)
• Kai Trewin - Leg (Out)

Match Officials

• REF: Lorenzo Hernandez
• AR1: Meghan Mullen
• AR2: Kevin Lock
• 4TH: Atahan Yaya
• VAR: Lukasz Szpala
• AVAR: Mike Kampmeinert

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : L L L D W W | Home Form: W W W L W W

NYCFC : L W W D L L | Away Form: L W W D L L

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
US Open Cup	1-0 W	5/20/2026
MLS Regular Season	3-0 L	5/10/2026
MLS Regular Season	3-2 L	9/17/2025

Players Involved

The Crew have eight current or former players playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The players are as follows (years in the org in parentheses, including years spent in the academy or on loan):

• Max Arfsten (2023-present): USA- Group D
• Sebastian Berhalter (2014-2021): USA- Group D
• Miloš Degenek (2022-23): Australia- Group D
• Derrick Etienne Jr. (2020-22): Haiti- Group C
• Cucho Hernández (2022-24): Colombia- Group K
• Cristian Martínez (2016-18): Panama- Group L
• Steven Moreira (2021-present): Cabo Verde- Group H
• Eloy Room (2019-2023): Curaçao- Group E

Schedule of Events

Friday, June 12th

• USA vs. Paraguay- 9:00 PM ET (FOX)

Saturday, June 13th

• Haiti vs. Scotland- 9:00 PM ET (FOX)

Sunday, June 14th

• Australia vs. Türkiye- 12:00 AM ET (FS1)
• Germany vs. Curaçao- 1:00 PM ET (FOX)

Monday, June 15th

• Spain vs. Cabo Verde- 12:00 PM ET (FOX)

Wednesday, June 17th

• Ghana vs. Panama- 7:00 PM ET (FS1)
• Uzbekistan vs. Colombia- 10:00 PM ET (FS1)

Friday, June 19th

• USA vs. Australia- 3:00 PM ET (FOX)
• Brazil vs. Haiti- 8:30 PM ET (FOX)

Saturday, June 20th

• Ecuador vs. Curaçao- 8:00 PM ET (FS1)

Sunday, June 21st

• Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde- 6:00 PM ET (FS1)

Tuesday, June 23rd

• Panama vs. Croatia- 7:00 PM ET (FOX)
• Colombia vs. Congo DR- 10:00 PM ET (FS1)

Wednesday, June 24th

• Morocco vs. Haiti- 6:00 PM ET (FS1)

Thursday, June 25th

• Curaçao vs. Côte d'Ivoire- 4:00 PM ET (FS1)
• Türkiye vs. USA- 10:00 PM ET (FOX)
• Paraguay vs. Australia- 10:00 PM ET (FS1)

Friday, June 26th

• Cabo Verde vs. Saudi Arabia- 8:00 PM ET (FS1)

Saturday, June 27th

• Panama vs. England- 5:00 PM ET (FOX)
• Colombia vs. Portugal- 7:30 PM ET (FOX)

Interim Head Coach Laurent Courtois

On how comfortable and confident he is after the past week, including being named Interim Head Coach and the Club winning both matches

“Comfortable, I wouldn’t say that – more relieved. Of course, [relieved] to get the points and the victories but just that the guys were able to show who they are, and we got on the same page on a few aspects of the game. They were bought in, they executed and we also learned to suffer, too, like the second half and we were ready to take that challenge, also. I can't be more pleased. I'm not comfortable at all, just relieved."

On recording shutouts in back-to-back matches with a different formation and a proclivity to play out of the back

“That's who they are. That's what they can do. They've been doing this for a while. I just wanted help to facilitate more than that, but this is something that they were doing before.”

On Defender Mohamed Farsi’s impact on the team after returning from a season-ending injury in 2025

“Incredible. You guys know what he's done, but I saw him before Crew 2 existed and his evolutions, what he's done for us and then becoming an international. Then he was injured and I was out of a job after the Montreal episode, and he always… He human-wise is just somebody that is different. Today, he showed the soccer player that he is so really pleased for the guy.”

On if he remained in contact with Farsi while he was head coach of Montreal

“Yeah, like I said, this is someone that we always ask each other's news. I know the rough path that he was on last season, and he knew mine. To see him today and what he's done, it’s incredible.”

On winning two matches in five days to gain momentum but entering a two-month break during the 2026 FIFA World Cup

“No, I need that break (laughter). Fantastic timing. I'm going to visit my dad far away. We all need the break. It's been a rough few months for everyone.”

On Defender Steven Moreira representing the Crew Cape Verde at the 2026 World Cup and potentially being joined by teammates

“Like I said, a few years ago I saw Stevie's first step with the Club. (Midfielder) Max (Arfsten) was actually with Crew 2. I was talking with the staff saying that we found our starter for the First Team, and he actually had a slower start than I thought he would, but then everything went too fast and the past two years he's been doing what he's been doing. It’s totally deserved and a talented kid but an even harder worker. Really pleased for him, really deserving. Disappointing for (Goalkeeper) Pat Schulte and (Captain and Midfielder) Sean Zawadzki, but I think they're going to have other opportunities to showcase themselves.”

On a revitalization of energy at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field today, especially in the final minutes of the match

“Yeah, that felt really good. This stadium represents a lot for all of us. We wanted to make sure that before that break we were able to provide them a decent performance, the results that they want and show heart and personality. That's what they did.”

On the Crew seeming more comfortable and confident the first half and his pre-match message to the side

“That Atlanta was going to push harder and that we need to accept how to be more on the ropes without panicking or without necessarily trying to find a solution on the tactical board and sometimes accept those moments without panicking. We know also that we would have those interesting transition moments that we had. Actually, I think we could have capitalized more. But then again, the ability to defend the box, block service, block shots or hunt rebounds one after the other and to make Pat’s decisions or execution easier, we know that we are capable of the good soccer. Can we suffer without panicking is an element that is as important.”

On the goals over the next two weeks of training before the break and then when returning ahead of the back half of the 2026 MLS season

“Try to periodize a little bit more the physical and the tactical load because it's been a lot of, I wouldn't say ‘improvisation’ the last week but close. You have 10 minutes every day to get your point across so it was rough. Having this break to put together tactical and physical periodization where you position yourself in that incredible stretch of games of back-to-back games for two months is going to be crucial. Look forward to it, but before that we really need to cut.”

On if the Crew having nine matches in 32 days when returning after the World Cup break is on his mind

“Yeah, that's why when I say we need a break between not only for that aspect but the trips. Yeah, we need a little bit of a break. Like I said, we want to sit with the staff and try to get prepared so we can be the most efficient possible before that crazy stretch of games.”

On the strategic timing of substitutes in the second half based on the flow of the match and dead ball situations

“(Assistant Coach) Josh (Williams), among other things, is a set piece coach so he decides. Of course, we check together the Xs and the Os, but at the end of the day, he decides I'm somebody that doesn’t care, meaning I would have done those things and he was persistent that he didn't want that. He made his points across and he insists on that, and I respect it. I know it's not always fair for the guys coming in having to deal with a crazy set-piece situation so he makes them accountable for that and good.”

Defender Mohamed Farsi

On what was working for the team in 2-0 win against Atlanta United

“I think it was a very good performance for us offensively. The coach (Laurent Courtois) gave us some solutions, so we exploited the wide areas, and I think it worked well, and we've been clinical in front of the goals, so that was great.”

On what it is like having Laurent Courtois as the interim head coach

“I think everybody in the locker room likes how he coaches and how he is as a human being, so you know everybody just gives his 100% for him and just fights for him, zero to 90 minutes, we are happy to give him the win again today.”

On his relationship with Laurent Courtois

“We've been having a good relationship since 2022. He helped me play well with Crew 2, and you know it's his best, because of him I got a First Team contract as well back in 2022. So very happy for that, but we always keep in touch since he was in Montreal, and sometimes we go and hang out in Montreal as well. So, I'm very happy that he's the head coach now, because he helps everybody here to get better, be the best version of ourselves.”

On his physical state since recovering from injury

“I feel good, obviously I'm far from 100% but it's going to take time, but I'm just happy to be able to play again, even it's not 100%. I think I'm in a place that I'm able to play more than 60-70 minutes. So, I'm happy for that.”

On his performance in win over Atlanta United

“I'm very happy, obviously, to assist, but I'm happy to win again, give this win for the coach, coaching staff as well, and just for the boys. It's very important for us to win this game at home. It's the last game before the break, so everybody is good vibes mentally. So, very happy.”

Defender Steven Moreira

On the difference in tonight’s performance compared to earlier in the season

“Like I said last time, we played different system, so everyone played in this real position, and just fluidity, joy. You can tell even the fans, we can tell the atmosphere, they really enjoy too, so yeah, I think that was the good job the coach (Laurent Courtois) put on us. Just joy, play free and enjoy, that's it.”

On if the team could feel a difference in the atmosphere from the crowd tonight

“Yeah, of course, there was a really good atmosphere. You remember the past few years, and hopefully in July the people will come more, because I can tell right now, they really enjoy, and that's nice to have them.”

On if it’s important to the team for the fans to enjoy their style of play

“Oh yeah, of course, that's really important. You have some games, was a tough couple games at home, it was a bit weird that we can tell the fans were a little bit upset too. So, I really understand, and like now we really enjoy playing well, so they have to come back.”

On what the biggest difference has been since Laurent Courtois took over as Interim Head Coach

“Like I say, I would say more joy in everything. We talk a lot with him, and you ask him some questions, and like, ‘guys just have some freedom, play, enjoy, move the ball, be consistent defensively, the rest defense, and everything.’ We are just very happy for him, we can tell, and that's good for him. Honestly, let's keep going.”

On what it’s like to have pause the MLS regular season and join his national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

“Yeah, like I say, it's a little bit weird to play the season and have a break, they tell you a lot about the World Cup, like, be careful, less injury, but like, if you’re talking too much about that, you can be bad too, so honestly, like my teammates and the Club, are happy a lot, so I'm grateful for that, and now I want to go enjoy.”

On if he has thought about getting injured in a game ahead of the FIFA World Cup

“Yeah, of course, sometimes you think about that, but honestly, like I say, the coaches , the staff, the people in the Club helped me a lot, like just be free, and our situation was not good too, and maybe it doesn't help. I would say the Club, they helped me, so like I just like, okay, I have to put the rock down and hope to help the teammates to have a good season, so that was good.”

On how he is feeling physically heading into the FIFA World Cup after a busy stretch of games over the past couple seasons

“I'm feeling great, honestly. The more I play games, the more I feel good, especially when you win, you recover very fast, like when you lose, your head’s down, like that's hard. You start to feel like everything in your body, but like right now, I feel very good, and just want to play more games.”

On if tonight was a must win game

“I would say, probably the U.S. Open Cup for me, but like today, of course, that was very important to close before the break, and coming back very strong, because the other team, they take points, and we have to take points and coming back stronger. So, I feel like this week was a very good response, and now we’re just hungry to, like me, I want to go and show the World Cup, but like the guys will be hungry to come back and to go through.”

Midfielder Max Arfsten

On tonight’s performance

“I just think we were comfortable, we were flowing in our movements, like we dominated and controlled the game, the entire game, in my opinion. And yeah, it kind of felt like the way, like the Crew of old, in my opinion, like we dominated the games, created a lot of chances, dominate possession, so it was a good feeling, for sure.”

On goalkeeper Patrick Schulte earning a clean sheet in tonight’s match

“Yeah, he did his job, of course, did what he was supposed to do and all credit to him, because it's never easy to keep a clean sheet, and he did well.”

On the differences in style of play under Laurent Courtois

“Yeah, I think it's a combination of he kind of knows everyone's strengths a little bit more because he's been around us for a couple years now. I think the three-back system, it just brings the most out of everyone's qualities, and everyone's kind of moving around, flowing in ways we know how to, so it's been fun. You can tell on the field that we're enjoying it a lot more.”

On how it felt for the team to earn a win before the 2026 FIFA World Cup break

“Awesome. You know, I think it was really big for us to get two wins before the break. Open Cup, we have a semifinal that we're going to host, and then, this as well just gives us really good momentum going into the break.”

On defender Mohamed Farsi’s impact on the team

“Yeah, it's really awesome to have him back, honestly. He's a smart player, in my opinion. Like, he's very deceptive with the way he plays, and it's nice that he’s back because I think it adds something like different to our attack. Yeah, I think you know we're so familiar with him being on the left and me on the right. It just feels natural, to be honest.”

On the U.S. Men’s National Team roster being leaked and his chances of making the roster

“Yeah, I saw something that got leaked, but I don't really know if it's true or not. I don't know if it's true or not, we'll have to wait and see. But to my knowledge, I know it gets dropped on Tuesday, so I'm waiting on Tuesday.”

On what it would mean to him to make the USMNT’s World Cup roster

“If I do make the team, it would be my ultimate dream come true. Honestly, it would be a very emotional moment, and I'd be just super thankful for everyone that's helped me get to this point. So, send me good vibes for Tuesday please.”

Game Info

Date: May 24, 2026 | Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field

Coverage Starts: 5:00 PM ET | Estimated Kickoff: 5:09 PM ET

Kickoff Forecast: 70° F, 5 mph winds W, chance of rain

Broadcast Info

TV: Apple TV (English and Spanish)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Apple TV English	Steve Cangialosi	Danny Higginbotham
Apple TV Spanish	Alejandro Figueredo	Tony Cherchi
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Kit Info

Team	Shirt	Shorts	Socks	Keeper Color
Columbus	Yellow	Black	Yellow	Blue
Atlanta	Black	Black	Black	Purple

Availability Report

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Malte Amundsen - Thigh (Out)
• Jamal Thiaré - Lower Leg (Questionable)

Atlanta United FC

• Matias Galarza - Not Due to Injury (Out)
• Fafa Picault - Hamstring (Out)
• Steven Alzate - Adductor (Questionable)
• Latte Lath - Illness (Questionable)

Match Officials

• REF: Chris Penso
• AR1: Cameron Blanchard
• AR2: Jeremy Hanson
• 4TH: Ricardo Montero Araya
• VAR: Daniel Radford
• AVAR: Jonathan Johnson

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : W L L L D W | Home Form: D W W W L W

Atlanta : W W W L D L | Away Form: L W W W D L

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Regular Season	1-3 W	4/4/2026
MLS Regular Season	4-5 W	9/13/2025
MLS Regular Season	3-1 W	6/25/2025

Game Info

Date: May 20, 2026 | Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field

Kickoff Forecast: 59° F, 10 mph winds NE, chance of rain

Broadcast Info

TV: Paramount+/CBS Sports Golazo Network (English)

Radio: 105.7 FM WXZX (English), 103.1 FM WWLA & 107.1 FM WWLG (Spanish)

Broadcast	PxP	Analyst
Paramount+/Golazo Network English	TBC	TBC
Radio English	Chris Doran	N/A
Radio Spanish	Juan Valladares	N/A

Injury Report (As of May 17th, Current Reports Unavailable)

Columbus Crew

• Wessam Abou Ali - Knee (Out)
• Malte Amundsen - Thigh (Out)
• Jamal Thiaré - Lower Leg (Out)
• Dylan Chambost - Ankle (Questionable)

NYCFC

• Alonso Martínez - Leg (Out)
• Drew Baiera - Leg (Out)
• Talles Magno - Leg (Out)
• Max Murray - Leg (Out)
• Aiden O’Neill - Leg (Out)
• Kevin O’Toole - Leg (Out)
• Maxi Moralez - Leg (Out)

Match Officials

• REF: TBC
• AR1: TBC
• AR2: TBC
• 4TH: TBC

Form Guide, All Comps (Oldest to Newest)

Columbus : W W L L L D | Home Form: L D W W W L

NYCFC : L W L W W D | Away Form: L W L W W D

Last 3 Meetings

Comp	Result	Date
MLS Regular Season	3-0 L	5/10/2026
MLS Regular Season	3-2 L	9/17/2025
MLS Regular Season	0-0 D	3/22/2025

Head Coach Henrik Rydström

On breaking down the match

“It was a good start. I can give my view from the whole of the game. If you put it into context, As we have talked about before, we have had some tough game pictures against us where we ourselves have played good and then we have conceded in the second half and lost the game. Then we had the (New York) City (FC) game. It feels like we played that like two months ago, but it was one week [ago]. As I mentioned, also, the feeling in that game was a little bit like we had in the first games of the season in the league. No real energy. Outspread. Even if we could have scored in that game, it was a bad performance. I think the reaction was really good against Red Bull (New York) and then again didn't get any points on that performance. It's easy to feel sorry for yourself, but I think what we showed in the first half was a team that doesn't feel sorry for itself. I also said before we know that Philly are really underrated. Also, what I was pointing at before, we and them are two teams that have been not getting the points we maybe should have gotten, if you look at the games. We knew it was going to be tough. The way we handled them in the first half, I was happy. When you have the lead and they get more and more desperate, then you know the second half is going to be choppy. What it gave us, the second half, was a lot of opportunities to threaten them in behind and then hurt them on the counter. We didn't have the quality in those moments. We missed the last pass. It got stuck on their last line instead of five meters longer and it would be like a clean situation with their keeper. That was what they gambled with in the second half. They started to push up. They were more aggressive. As everybody knows, we don't have a striker now. It will be moments in games where the opponent can start to step. Again, we were close in hurting them in those kind of situations, but we didn't have that natural killer instinct to go in behind. Of course, the feeling when we conceded, it was again a cross from the side where we don't sort it out in the box as we should. It was no difficult situation. It was bad defending from our side. Instead of losing the game, I think we raised the level. Of course, there were some counterattack situation in their favor, but [we had] the (Defender Andrés) Herrera chance and (Midfielder) Hugo (Picard) didn't even shoot. It's two big chances where we could have won the game. Overall, I like the spirit the team showed."

On Defender Mohamed Farsi starting for the first time since July 2025 and having an impact on the match, both when he was playing and was substituted

“Of course, I need to see the game again and maybe I change my mind, but I don't think so. I'm really happy with what he gave us. Don't forget about his energy, his body language and his way of being as a person. We have missed that. I like what he brought to the team. Also, in the game, I don't know how many times in the first half where they tried to trap us on the side and we find what I call ‘out-in’ and we play through them with Mo’s positioning. He was calm with the ball. We know he's good with the ball, but he's been out for a while. I'm also very happy with his defending. There was one time when he [wasn’t] in line with the rest of the back line so they could play through us in the first half, but then he saved the day by defending alone against three opponents. It was good to see.”

On the Crew’s resilience coming back from three tough matches, particularly the game at Red Bull New York as another example of not being able to maintain a lead

“It's a mind game for sure. Been touching that subject before. Last season, end of the season, a lot of like late goals and tough losses, and it's a lot of the same players. When you experience that couple of times like we have done this season, it is quite human to react and be a little bit afraid in those situations. In this game, it was more due to that they turned up the volume in the second half and started to really try to go for it. We were not passive. We didn't just leave the ball to them. Yeah, we had some ball losses, but it comes down to their pressing game and that we got a little bit tired. We were not afraid of losing anything. Against Red Bull, it was a set piece from nowhere. These two games, I said it after Red Bull, we need to understand where we are. That doesn't mean that we don't fight for every victory and every point, but we lack some players. We had some hits. I see the progress we do with the ball. I see the progress we do in how we defend, also, against this kind of team. We have taken four points from them, and we know how tough they are. I try to divide the feelings, sort the feelings out and see the steps we take. Then of course, we need to defend better in some other situations, and we will.”

On the Crew not having a true striker following injuries and if he’s had conversations with General Manager Issa Tall about it

“Yeah, we talk. We sold (former Crew and Toulouse Forward Jacen) Russell-Rowe before a couple of weeks before the MLS started. We brought (Forward) Jamal (Thiaré) in from Atlanta. We were very happy with our attacking line. We had (Forward) Diego (Rossi), (Midfielder Daniel) Gazdag), (Midfielder) Max (Arfsten) and (Midfielder) Hugo (Picard), and then (Forward) Wess (Abou Ali) got a serious injury and is out the rest of the season. Jamal, he had some trouble before with his calf and that came back. Of course, you can't have that depth in the squad – you have two strikers of like high level [out due to injury]. We have a lot of midfielders. That's why I say if you look at it, we are still one of the best teams in the league to score in open play. Again, I'm quite happy with the way we create scoring opportunities and how we can have the ball without two strikers. It's nothing the Club can do anything about. It's just unluck, and we will sort it out this summer. I have no problems with it. Maybe it was not what you meant neither, but I have no problems with it. I like the way we play. I like the way we found other solutions. Gazdag has played more now. Hugo has scored and scored an amazing goal now. Max has scored. I think we find other ways to compensate. Due to like tactical [factors and] to not have a threat in behind more than we have right now, of course, an opponent they know it so we need to be really good with the ball to be able to solve it. I think overall we have done it.”

Midfielder Daniel Gazdag

On his thoughts on the match and returning to Philadelphia

“Yeah, I think first off, we did a very good job on the ball and also against the ball. We controlled the game. I wouldn't say it was a very intense game in the first half, but we controlled it really good. We wouldn't let them create anything, and second half, I think they woke up a little bit, they turned it to the way they like to play, and they created the chances at the end of the game but I think it was good fight from us.”

On if the team thought they would need another goal to win the match at halftime

“Yeah, obviously we talked about that. I don't know why in the second half we just couldn't create chances.”

On if he was putting pressure on himself to score a goal

“Yeah, I mean, everyone's under pressure, obviously. The season is frustrating for us, the results are not good, so everyone's under pressure, obviously I’m involved as well. So, yeah.”

On what made Philadelphia Union effective in the second half

“Yeah, it's hard to tell how exactly. We need to watch it back and let's see what they changed. I felt that they jumped more on me and Diego (Rossi) so we didn't have as much space between the lines as in the first half. I think that could have been what changed.”

On how the team battles through periods of time when the breaks don’t go their way

“Yeah, I mean, there are periods like this in everyone's career. I think we are going through a situation as a team when things just are not going our way. All we can do is keep working hard, and hopefully things can turn around, and we can catch up on the table.”

Defender Mohamed Farsi

General thoughts on the game and how he felt after his first start of the season

“Physically I felt good. Before the game, I didn’t know how long I could go but surprisingly even after I got subbed off, I was still feeling good. But it’s better to not take any risks, it’s the first game I started in 10 months. But I felt good, I felt some connections with the boys on my side. I think we played well, we played well with the ball. The second half was a bit harder, I’ll be honest, unfortunately we conceded the goal but overall I think it’s positive. It’s positive, we were quick with the ball, we moved the ball well. Actually, I think we could have scored more goals but unfortunately couldn’t do it. We’re going to adapt and be ready for the Open Cup game on Wednesday.”

On Henrik Rydstrom saying the team is going through an unlucky period and how to deal with that

“I don’t like to talk about lucky or unlucky. I think in life you deserve what you get and sometimes not. But I think tonight we might have deserved a bit better, you know. But credit to them, they didn’t stop and they went all in and scored the equalizer. I think the second half, we didn’t play as good as the first half, unfortunately. So that’s on us. But we didn’t keep the same intensity, the same desire to play football in the second half.