Crucial Clash Before World Cup Break: Columbus Crew Host Atlanta United in Playoff Push
As the MLS season heats up, Columbus Crew will host Atlanta United in a crucial encounter. This match is vital for both teams, currently lingering in the lower half of the Eastern Conference standings, as they look to climb for a playoff spot before the upcoming World Cup break.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This match, held at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, Ohio, is a critical fixture in the 2026 Major League Soccer season, especially coming just before the FIFA World Cup break. Columbus Crew currently sit 13th in the Eastern Conference standings with 13 points (3 wins, 7 losses, 4 draws), while Atlanta United are right behind them in 14th place with 11 points (3 wins, 8 losses, 2 draws). According to league rules, the top seven teams in each conference automatically qualify for the playoffs, with the 8th and 9th place teams entering a Wild Card round. Both teams are currently outside these qualification spots, making the outcome of this game vital for their aspirations to improve their standing before the mid-season pause. Columbus Crew recently underwent a coaching change, with Laurent Courtois stepping in as interim head coach. Atlanta United, meanwhile, are looking to turn their fortunes around under the guidance of returning coach Tata Martino. The game is billed as a 'Sunday Night Soccer' event, setting the stage for the World Cup break, which underscores its significance.
Recent Form
Columbus Crew have been struggling in the league recently, enduring a four-game MLS winless skid, though they managed to break that run with a 1-0 victory over New York City FC in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals. Their record in the last five official matches across all competitions stands at 3 wins and 2 losses, comprising two league defeats and two Open Cup victories. Atlanta United's form has also been inconsistent. In their recent MLS outings, they drew 1-1 against Orlando City and then fell 1-2 to LA Galaxy. They also suffered a 1-4 defeat to Orlando City in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals. Overall, Atlanta United's last five league matches show a record of 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses.
Key Players & Injury News
For Columbus Crew, the team will be without their star striker Wessam Abou Ali, who is out for the season with a knee injury. However, Diego Rossi will be a key figure in attack, co-leading the team in goals and recently performing well against the New York Red Bulls. Other players to watch include USMNT wingback Max Arfsten, who leads the Crew in goal contributions, and the 2024 MLS Defender of the Year, Steven Moreira. For Atlanta United, Designated Player Miguel Almirón is questionable to return from the bench after a month sidelined with a knee injury. Forward Fafa Picault is also questionable due to a hamstring issue. Notably, Alexey Miranchuk is Atlanta United's leading scorer, while young Cooper Sanchez leads the team in assists. Steven Alzate and Ronald Hernández have been cleared from injury and are eligible to play.