Columbus Crew, aiming to solidify their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, are set for a significant match against Inter Miami. Due to the high anticipated attendance exceeding Lower.com Field`s capacity, the game will be held at FirstEnergy Stadium, the larger venue of the Cleveland Browns, capable of accommodating over 60,000 spectators.
The presence of Lionel Messi is a major draw, prompting teams to maximize stadium capacity. This particular matchup is further highlighted by the history of intense games between these two teams, both in regular league play and the Leagues Cup, as they both contend for leading spots in their conference.
Under coach Wilfried Nancy, the Crew have emerged as a formidable force in MLS. The potential full debut of new signing Daniel Gazdag adds another layer of excitement as the Crew seek to maintain their Eastern Conference lead and challenge Vancouver Whitecaps for the Supporters` Shield.
Match Preview: Columbus Crew vs. Inter Miami
- Date: Saturday, April 19
- Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
- Location: FirstEnergy Stadium — Cleveland, Ohio
- How to Watch: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Columbus Crew +125; Draw +280; Inter Miami +185
Previous Encounter
The last time these teams played was in October 2024, towards the end of the MLS regular season, in a highly competitive match. Inter Miami won 3-2, with Lionel Messi scoring twice in the first half (45th and 50th minutes). Columbus responded with goals from Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernandez, but a goal from Luis Suarez ultimately secured Miami`s victory.
Match Significance
While it`s still early in the MLS season, Miami`s impressive comeback against Los Angeles FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup elevates the stakes of this game beyond a typical April fixture. Inter Miami has a game in hand in the Eastern Conference race but trails the Crew, even with a potential win. With Columbus strengthening their attack and Miami coming off a draw with Chicago Fire, this game carries significant weight in the battle for Eastern Conference dominance.
Key Storyline: Gazdag`s First Start?
Columbus Crew invested $4.5 million in Daniel Gazdag from Philadelphia Union to compensate for Hernandez`s offensive output. Gazdag, the Union`s all-time top scorer with 59 goals, played a key role in their MLS Cup final appearance. After a substitute appearance against St. Louis City SC, where he nearly contributed to a goal, Gazdag might make his first start against Inter Miami.
Projected Starting Lineups
Columbus Crew: Patrick Schulte, Mohamed Farsi, Steven Moriera, Sean Zawadzki, Malte Admunsen, Daniel Gazdag, Darlington Nagbe, Dylan Chambost, Diego Rossi, Jacen Russell-Rowe, Max Arfsten
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Marcelo Weigandt, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Tadeo Allende, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Player Spotlight: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is always the player to watch. Games in larger stadiums present unique challenges for teams. Despite Columbus having a strong home crowd, the expected 60,000+ fans might create a less traditional home advantage for them, potentially favoring Inter Miami due to Messi`s widespread appeal. While the initial “Messi effect” may have lessened slightly, his presence still draws massive crowds. It remains to be seen if Columbus can be the team to prevent Messi from contributing a goal or assist, as he hasn`t gone two consecutive games without doing so this season.
Game Narrative: Crew Aim for Another Win Over Miami
Columbus Crew previously defeated Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup, demonstrating that team cohesion can outweigh individual star power. While Miami retaliated by setting a single-season points record of 74, the Crew`s current form suggests they could challenge that record this season, setting up an exciting rivalry.
Match Prediction
Gazdag is predicted to score his first goal for the Crew in his anticipated first start. Despite Miami`s efforts, Columbus is expected to win by a single goal. Coach Nancy has instilled a strong drive in the Crew, and with Los Angeles teams showing signs of decline, Miami might be their biggest competitor for the MLS Cup. Prediction: Columbus Crew 2, Inter Miami 1
Adrian Whitmore