Columbus Crew will welcome Atlanta United to a Sunday night showdown presented by Continental Tire, a match that could prove decisive in the Eastern Conference race. With both clubs mired near the bottom of the table, the stakes are higher than ever for a team that has already secured a playoff berth in recent years.
Key Players to Watch
For Columbus, the onus will be on Rossi to add to his co‑leading tally, while Arfsten’s dual threat of goals and assists makes him a constant danger. Defender Steven Moreira, the 2024 MLS Defender of the Year, is also set to feature, having earned a spot on Cape Verde’s World Cup roster.
Atlanta’s hopes rest on Almirón’s return to full health, which could unlock the midfield’s creativity, and on Miranchuk, whose five goals have kept the team competitive. Young forward Saba Lobjanidze and veteran André Gomes may also see minutes as Martino looks to rotate his squad before the World Cup break.
The market sees Columbus as the heavy favorite at home, cornering two‑thirds of the wagering pool against Atlanta. A win for the Crew would not only boost their playoff odds but also provide a morale boost for Courtois’s side as they aim to break the winless streak.
With both teams looking to turn their seasons around, the Sunday night clash promises drama, skill and a potential turning point in the Eastern Conference race.