Columbus Crew vs New England Prediction: Based on current form and home advantage, Columbus Crew are favored to win 3-1 against New England Revolution, with Cucho Hernandez likely to continue his scoring streak.
The Columbus Crew are set to host the New England Revolution in a Major League Soccer matchup at Lower.com Field on Saturday, October 12, 2024. This Eastern Conference clash pits the high-flying Crew against a struggling Revolution side.
Match Preview
Columbus Crew enter this fixture in fine form, sitting second in the Eastern Conference with 60 points from 32 games. Their recent 3-2 victory over Philadelphia Union showcased their attacking prowess and resilience.
New England Revolution, on the other hand, have endured a difficult season. They occupy 14th place in the East with just 31 points from 32 matches. Their latest outing resulted in a 2-1 home defeat to DC United, further highlighting their struggles.
Columbus Crew vs New England Lineups and Formation
Columbus Crew Lineup (Predicted 4-2-3-1)
Romero; Cheberko, Camacho, Amundsen; Russell-Rowe, Matan, Nagbe, Jones; Rossi, Ramirez; Hernandez
Columbus are likely to stick with their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. The in-form Cucho Hernandez is expected to lead the line, supported by a creative trio of Rossi, Ramirez, and Jones.
New England Revolution Lineup (Predicted 4-4-2)
Ivacic; Bye, Parker, Romney, Mensah; Kaye, Polster; Borrero, C. Gil, Boateng; Vrioni
New England may opt for a 4-4-2 setup, with Vrioni partnering Gil up front. The midfield quartet will be crucial in providing both defensive cover and attacking support.
Injury Updates
Columbus Crew will be without Sean Zawadzki due to a rib injury, while Evan Bush is sidelined with a wrist issue.
For New England, Will Sands is doubtful with a foot problem, and Tomas Chancalay is out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.
Where to Watch
The match will be available for streaming on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:30 AM UK time on October 13, 2024.
Who Will Win? Prediction and Analysis
Columbus Crew are strong favorites given their impressive home record and overall form this season. They’ve been particularly potent in attack, scoring 65 goals in 32 games.
New England’s defensive frailties have been a major concern, conceding 64 goals – the joint second-highest in the Eastern Conference. This mismatch in defensive solidity could prove decisive.
Prediction: Columbus Crew 3-1 New England Revolution
Cucho Hernandez, who has scored in five consecutive league matches, is likely to be a key threat for the Crew.
Key Stats and Form
Columbus Crew:
- Last 5 matches: W-L-D-W-W
- Goals scored: 65
- Goals conceded: 38
New England Revolution:
- Last 5 matches: L-L-W-L-D
- Goals scored: 35
- Goals conceded: 64
Head-to-Head Record
Recent meetings have favored Columbus Crew:
- June 30, 2024: New England 1-5 Columbus Crew
- October 5, 2023: New England 1-2 Columbus Crew
- April 16, 2023: Columbus Crew 1-1 New England
Current Standings
Eastern Conference (Top 5):
- Inter Miami – 71 points
- Columbus Crew – 60 points
- FC Cincinnati – 56 points
- Orlando City SC – 52 points
- New York City FC – 50 points
New England Revolution are 14th with 31 points.
Latest News
Columbus Crew have set a new club record for points in a single season (60). They also captured the Leagues Cup earlier this year, underlining their impressive campaign.
New England Revolution’s playoff hopes have been officially extinguished following their recent defeat. This match represents an opportunity for them to salvage some pride in a disappointing season.
The contrast in fortunes between these two sides sets the stage for an intriguing encounter at Lower.com Field.