Key Takeaways:
- Columbus Crew overcame 2-0 deficit to win 3-2.
- Diego Rossi scored twice for Columbus.
- Inter Miami eliminated from Leagues Cup title defense.
- Luis Suárez involved in both Miami goals.
The Columbus Crew staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Inter Miami 3-2 in a pulsating Leagues Cup Round of 16 clash at Lower.com Field. The reigning MLS Cup champions erased a two-goal deficit to end Miami’s title defense and advance to the quarterfinals.
Goals and Assists Breakdown
Inter Miami:
- Matías Rojas (10′) – Assisted by Diego Gómez
- Diego Gómez (62′) – Assisted by Luis Suárez
Columbus Crew:
- Christian Ramírez (67′) – Assisted by Maximilian Arfsten
- Diego Rossi (69′) – Assisted by Cucho Hernández
- Diego Rossi (81′) – Assisted by Mohamed Farsi
First Half Dominance by Miami
Inter Miami, still without injured superstar Lionel Messi, looked in control early on. They took the lead in the 10th minute when Matías Rojas headed home from Diego Gómez’s cross. The visitors doubled their advantage just after the hour mark as Gómez curled a sublime effort into the far corner after being set up by Luis Suárez.
Columbus’ Stunning Turnaround
Trailing 2-0 with 30 minutes remaining, Columbus mounted an improbable fightback. Substitute Christian Ramírez sparked the revival in the 67th minute, powering home a header to halve the deficit. Just two minutes later, Diego Rossi equalized with a clinical finish from inside the box.
With momentum firmly on their side, Columbus completed the turnaround in the 81st minute. Rossi was the hero once again, coolly slotting home from a tight angle to send the home crowd into raptures.
Tactical Shifts Prove Decisive
Columbus coach Wilfried Nancy made several key substitutions that changed the complexion of the match. The introduction of Ramírez and tactical tweaks allowed the Crew to gain a foothold in midfield and put Miami’s defense under sustained pressure.
Miami coach Gerardo Martino was left to rue his side’s inability to protect their lead. Despite the disappointment, he praised his team’s performance against the MLS Cup holders, stating: “One cannot help but be very satisfied with the way in which we can stand in the home of the last champion.”
Statistical Breakdown
Possession:
Columbus 59% – 41%
Miami Shots:
Columbus 3 – 1 Miami
Shots on Target:
Columbus 3 – 1 Miami
Corners:
Columbus 2 – 0 Miami
Individual Standouts
Diego Rossi (Columbus): The Uruguayan forward was the catalyst for Columbus’ comeback, scoring twice in 12 minutes to turn the match on its head. His clinical finishing proved the difference.
Luis Suárez (Miami): While on the losing side, Suárez’s influence was clear. He provided the assist for Gómez’s goal and was a constant threat throughout.
What’s Next
Columbus will face New York City FC in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals. For Miami, attention now turns to their MLS campaign, with a crucial match against Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati on August 24th.
This thrilling encounter showcased the unpredictable nature of knockout soccer. Columbus demonstrated their resilience and championship pedigree, while Miami will rue a missed opportunity to defend their Leagues Cup crown.
