The upcoming match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday highlights both teams’ urgent desire to regain form as they struggle to secure playoff positions. Despite their differing standings, each team faces significant challenges as they aim to revitalize their seasons.
The Columbus Crew currently holds a record of 12-5-9, accumulating 45 points. Initially a contender for the Supporters’ Shield after a promising start of 7-1-3, they now find themselves in sixth place in the Eastern Conference. With eight matches remaining, Columbus sits just two points behind Orlando City, which occupies the fourth and final playoff spot for home-field advantage in the first round. Team midfielder Max Arfsten expressed optimism about the Crew’s potential, stating, “You don’t want to peak too early then drop off. I think the best is yet to come in terms of our team form and that’s what we’re searching for.”
In contrast, the New England Revolution has struggled significantly this season, currently holding a record of 7-12-7 and just 28 points. After a disappointing start, the Revolution now sits in 10th place, 11 points below the playoff line. Their recent performance has been disheartening, with only one win in their last eight matches. The solitary victory came against D.C. United on August 9, when former U.S. men’s national team goalkeeper Matt Turner returned to the pitch, guiding the team to a 2-0 win. Turner, who is the club’s all-time leader in winning percentage at .587, has provided a much-needed boost. Defender Mamadou Fofana praised Turner’s impact, stating, “He’s a very good goalkeeper. He gives us confidence. I hope he continues to play like this to help the team.”
As both teams prepare for their face-off, the Crew may also benefit from the anticipated debut of Wessam Abou Ali, a forward recently acquired from Egyptian Premier League champions Al Ahly Sporting Club on July 26, 2023. Abou Ali, who scored 38 goals in 60 matches for his former club, has been recovering from a hamstring injury but expressed confidence in his readiness for Saturday’s match. He remarked, “I felt like I had an opportunity to come here and help the team. They were maybe missing out on a striker in that position.”
Both the Columbus Crew and New England Revolution are at a critical juncture in their seasons. With only a handful of matches left, the outcome of this match could significantly influence their playoff aspirations. Fans will be eager to see if the Crew can harness their potential or if the Revolution can turn their season around with a much-needed victory.
