Columbus Crew vs. New York City FC: Match Preview August 31, 2024

Head-to-Head

The Columbus Crew and New York City FC have faced each other seven times, with the Crew holding a slim 3-2-2 advantage. However, NYCFC has won the last two meetings, including a 2-1 victory earlier this season.

Columbus Crew

The Crew are coming off a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union, which snapped a three-game losing streak. Cucho Hernandez scored the game-winner in the 85th minute.

Hernandez, who leads the Crew with 10 goals this season, will be a key player to watch against NYCFC. The Colombian forward is dangerous in the box and can create chances for himself and his teammates.

Other players to watch for the Crew include midfielders Lucas Zelarayan and Darlington Nagbe. Zelarayan is a creative playmaker who can unlock defenses, while Nagbe is a solid two-way player who can contribute both offensively and defensively.

New York City FC

NYCFC are coming off a 1-0 win over the New England Revolution. Talles Magno scored the game-winner in the 65th minute.

Magno, who has scored five goals in his last six games, is in good form heading into the match against the Crew. The Brazilian forward is a dangerous threat in the attack and will be looking to add to his tally against Columbus.

Other players to watch for NYCFC include midfielders Maxi Moralez and Santiago Rodriguez. Moralez is a veteran playmaker who can control the tempo of the game, while Rodriguez is a young, up-and-coming player who has impressed with his dribbling skills and ability to create chances.

Match Prediction

This is a tough match to call, but I give a slight edge to NYCFC. They are in better form at the moment and have a few more quality players in their squad.

However, the Crew are always a dangerous team at home, and they will be looking to make a statement against NYCFC. If they can get Hernandez and Zelarayan going, they have a good chance of winning.

My prediction: NYCFC 2-1 Columbus Crew