An ambitious Minnesota United 3W-L0-2D led by Adrian Heath will look to sneak past a strong Columbus Crew 4W-0L-1D. Columbus comes into the round of 16 as favorites after being the only side to retrieve all nine points. The Crew leads the short series between the two 2W-0D-1L.
Things got a bit heated when coaches conducted their pre-game press conferences.
Columbus' Caleb Porter says he sees through #MNUFC coach Adrian Heath's words on #Crew96 being "crowned" #MLSisBack Champs:
— Andy Greder (@andygreder) July 28, 2020
"He likes to sandbag his team a little bit, take attention off them and put it on other team. Problem with that is everybody knows they have a good team."
Also, expect a rainy night and don't be surprised if there are storm delays.
This is projected weather radar for Orlando at 7:45 local, 15 minutes before #MNUFC and #Crew96 kick off.
— Eli Hoff (@byEliHoff) July 28, 2020
Looks like some rain could come in, maybe around the second half. More of a threat for Cincy-Portland in the late time slot. pic.twitter.com/Bz5xGPMagi
Columbus Crew vs Minnesota United: Match Preview
Columbus Crew
The Black & Gold got off to a dreamy start to the MLS is Back Tournament after defeating the New York Red Bulls, Atlanta United and Cincinnati FC. Add their win and draw before lockdown, and they sit in first place overall in the MLS. Moreover, the group has displayed an attractive progressive possession style that has offered offensive and defensive soundness.
Tonight's Starting XI vs. @MNUFC #Crew96 | @MAPFREIns
— Columbus Crew SC (@ColumbusCrewSC) July 28, 2020
Caleb Porter's squad rotations have been on point so far in the tournament. Only three players featured in all three games in striker Gyasi Zardes, midfielder Darlington Nagbe and center back Jonathan Mensah. Argentinian attacking midfielder Lucas Zelarayan did not start against Atlanta United but had an important role in the games against Cincinnati and New York, scoring two goals and providing an assist. The Crew also kept clean sheets across all groups stage games.
Player to watch
Lucas Zelarayan arrived at Columbus on January 1 from Tigres UANL. Since then, he's played five MLS games and had as many goals contributions as he had in 15 Liga MX Apertura appearances. These first MLS performances are a sneak peek to what Zelarayan has in store at this level. Having just turned 28 years old, the Argentine will look to have one of the best seasons of his career.
Injuries: Vito Wormgoor (OUT, ankle surgery), Eloy Room (questionable, hamstring)
Minnesota United
Columbus is not the only team heading into this match with positives on their side. The Loons have proven to be a strong and resilient side so far this year. Defeating Portland and San Jose before the pandemic, Minnesota headed into the MLS is Back Tournament with lots of momentum.
our crew for this evening...
— Minnesota United FC (@MNUFC) July 28, 2020
Having gone down 1-0 to Sporting Kansas City in the first half of their opening match, Minnesota crafted a monumental comeback in added time to win 2-1. The Loons then drew their following two games against Colorado Rapids and Real Salt Lake finishing group play with five points. Not a bad result as they are playing without Defender of the Year Ike Opara. Minnesota United will need to add a little something else to the mix if they want to reach the quarterfinal round.
Player to watch
Twenty-nine-year-old Ethan Finlay had an impressive showing last time out against the Colorado Rapids scoring two goals. Having previously played for the Crew, he'll be looking to have an eventful night. He'll look to connect with Hassani Dotson, Luis Amarilla, Jan Gregus and other pieces to get the ball in the back of the net.
Injuries: Ike Opara (undisclosed), Kevin Monilo (questionable, left hamstring)
Columbus Crew vs Minnesota United: Broadcast information
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