Who’s ready for a Massive night in Columbus Crew history – or should we say Masiva?
On Saturday, the Black & Gold face CF Pachuca in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup Final in Mexico with a chance to win the competition for the first time in club history.
Numbers to Know
1 – This is as straightforward as it gets. With a win, the Crew have continental supremacy for the first time in the team’s 29-year history, as well as a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Ahead of the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup, Crew president and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said this tournament was a chance to showcase Columbus to the world. Now, the Crew, having achieved numerous firsts to advance to the final, are a match away from being crowned the best team on the continent and could play against some of the best teams in the world next year. Additionally, the Crew are hoping to become only the second MLS team to win the tournament.
10 – Crew supporters know a thing or two about South American No. 10’s shining brightest in the biggest moments. It’s time to praise Diego Rossi for his phenomenal May, which included four goals in three league matches this past month. In 14 league appearances this season, Rossi has four goals and five assists. He’s also scored against Mexican clubs – CF Monterrey and Tigres UANL – in the Crew’s last two trips south of the border. Rossi is proving his own quality as an individual, but he also unlocks opportunities for teammates. Cucho Hernández missing time with an injury has only reiterated Rossi’s attacking venom. Regardless of who plays for Columbus on Saturday night, having No. 10 on the pitch will be a massive advantage.
7 – Pachuca recently finished seventh in the Liga MX Clausura standings with 29 points from 17 games. However, standings don’t mean much in a cup final. What Black & Gold supporters should keep an eye on is the differences in form since these clubs have last played. For Columbus, the Crew have won three-straight road matches. Naturally, everyone hopes there’s a fourth on Saturday. Pachuca, though, hasn’t played a match since May 11 in the Clausura quarterfinals against Club América. Basically, who will benefit more entering the final, the club that’s in great form but on the road, or the one that’s at home but hasn’t played in weeks. Regardless, the Crew are looking to become the first team to defeat Pachuca on the road in Concacaf Champions Cup play since 2001 – a 30-match unbeaten streak.
8,000 – Well, no player wears this jersey number, but it’s one thing to watch for Pachuca. Estadio Hidalgo, the site of the continental final, is 8,000 ft above sea level. For context, the Ohio capital is between 700-850 feet. So, how will the altitude impact the Crew? Well, it’s something that’s certainly top of mind.
When They Last Met
Saturday will actually be the first meeting between the clubs. That said, there is a familiar face. Marino Hinestroza played in 46 games across all competitions for Pachuca and joined the Crew from the Mexican side this past December.
Match Overview
Who: Columbus Crew at CF Pachuca
When: Saturday, June 1 at 9:15 p.m. ET
Where: Estadio Hidalgo
How to Watch: FS1 and FOX Sports App (English) | TUDN (Español)
How to Listen: La Grande 102.5 FM | Alt 105.7 FM | iHeart Radio app
