In a redux of MLS Cup 2023, the Columbus Crew made a definitive statement against LAFC on Saturday night, clinching a commanding 5-1 victory at BMO Stadium to snap the Black & Gold’s 10-game unbeaten streak.
Handing LAFC their most significant home defeat in club history, the Crew extended their own winning streak to five games.
“I’m thrilled because the challenge we faced was daunting, given the circumstances. Yet my players managed to stay true to themselves, executing our game plan beautifully and making it tough for our opponents,” remarked Crew head coach Wilfried Nancy postgame. “That resilience is something I admire, so I’m delighted with our performance.”
The Brightest Stars in Hollywood ✨ pic.twitter.com/Qsb9siLtit
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) July 14, 2024
Cucho & Co. lead the way Once again, the most formidable trio in MLS propelled their team to victory. Christian Ramírez netted a brace, while Diego Rossi scored against his former team. And as in the MLS Cup, Cucho Hernández starred, unleashing a stunning strike from outside the box to put Columbus ahead 2-0 in the 56th minute. The first-time MLS All-Star now boasts 12 goals and 8 assists this season, his performance against LAFC marking him alongside Jeff Cunningham (2001-02) and Stern John (1998-99) as one of only three Crew players with at least 20 goal contributions in consecutive seasons.
“Making history is always special,” said the 25-year-old. “I’m thrilled because the club has shown faith in me. I need to keep pushing myself to score, assist, and win—that’s my job.”
Nancy stays focused on Columbus The authoritative victory by the Crew will inevitably resonate in U.S. men’s national team discussions, with Nancy and LAFC’s Steve Cherundolo emerging as top contenders for the vacant head coaching position. Saturday’s outcome clearly favored one of them.
“I don’t engage in rumors, plain and simple,” responded Nancy when asked about the speculation linking him to the USMNT role. “I aim to be limitless, constantly challenging myself. For now, my focus is here. I’m content and committed. We’ll see what the future holds.”
Not Like Us pic.twitter.com/80LwruZa11
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) July 14, 2024
Emerging rivalry Beyond the coaching intrigue, a compelling rivalry has blossomed between the league’s past two champions. Even without a trophy at stake, an LAFC vs. Columbus Crew matchup has become essential viewing.
“We knew it would be a tough game. Honestly, the MLS Cup final wasn’t that long ago, and tonight reaffirmed that,” remarked Cucho. “The rivalry was palpable. It’s a top MLS rivalry because both teams consistently prove themselves among the best. That’s not just talk—it’s in the numbers.”
For now, those numbers clearly favor Columbus.
“We played an exceptional game,” Cucho concluded. “We executed our plan to perfection.”
