Back to winning ways in league play, the Columbus Crew hope to keep momentum rolling on Saturday night when they face rival Chicago Fire FC at Soldier Field.
Numbers to Know
7 – The Black & Gold rebounded nicely from last Saturday’s setback with a convincing win on Wednesday night at CF Montréal. Max Arfsten gave the visitors the lead before Diego Rossi scored the game winner. Late in the match, Marino Hinestroza added the exclamation point late to seal a 3-1 win at Montréal. But now attention shifts toward Chicago on Saturday. Before Wednesday’s win, Columbus was winless in seven league matches. Hence, the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference standings. But with fixtures no longer yoyoing between league and continental play – at least for now – the Crew can focus on accumulating points and climbing the table.
11 – Hinestroza’s late goal reiterated that he’s been a nice addition to the league champions in 2024. On the field for six minutes Wednesday night, it was long enough to notch a second league goal in eight appearances. The 21-year-old Colombian has mostly been utilized as a substitute, but he’s produced strong appearances to date.
14 – Things have been better for the Fire. Chicago is 14th in the Eastern Conference – second from the bottom. The club has 10 points from 13 games and lost at home Wednesday night against Charlotte FC. Winless in six, the Fire have been kept scoreless in five-of-their-last six matches. (In the one game with a goal, it was a lone one). Simply, Chicago is struggling through the first few months of the season, and the Crew will hope to keep it that way with a second-consecutive road win.
9 – Hugo Cuypers is tied with Brian Gutierrez with a team-leading three goals through 13 games. Cuypers was also the man who scored the team’s lone goal in the past six outings. The Belgian was signed to a club-record deal earlier this preseason, so don’t underestimate his quality and attacking potential.
When They Last Met
The Black & Gold beat their historic rival, 2-1, when the teams met on March 9 at Lower.com Field. Jacen Russell-Rowe struck first in the 68th minute. Chicago equalized soon after, but Mohamed Farsi’s dramatic 100th-minute goal sealed the three points for the Crew. And speaking of dramatics…don’t forget about the last match between the sides at Soldier Field. Columbus won, 2-1, on June 10, 2023, thanks to a ~ shot from midfield ~ by Lucas Zelarayán in second-half stoppage time. (Of course, in 2022, Cucho Hernández made his Crew debut in Chicago and delivered some attacking fireworks). We’re used to memorable moments in this matchup when they play in the Windy City – so get excited!
Match Overview
Who: Columbus Crew at CF Chicago Fire FC
When: Saturday, May 18 at 8:30 p.m. ET
Where: Soldier Field
How to Watch: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
How to Listen: La Grande 102.5 FM | Alt 105.7 FM | iHeart Radio app
Single-Match Tickets
Secure your seat to cheer on the reigning MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field this season!
