The stage is set for an enthralling semi-final clash in the CONCACAF Champions Cup as Columbus Crew host Monterrey on April 25, 2024.
This highly anticipated first-leg matchup promises to be a tactical battle between two well-prepared teams.
Current Form
Columbus's Current Form
Columbus Crew, the MLS Cup champions, have started their campaign on a high, balancing their domestic and international obligations effectively.
They reached the semi-finals by edging past Tigres 4-3 on penalties after a tense draw. In MLS action, they remain unbeaten at Lower.com Field this season, showcasing resilience by coming back twice to secure a draw against Portland Timbers last Saturday.
Monterrey's Current Form
Monterrey has been equally impressive, maintaining a perfect record in the Champions Cup with six wins out of six.
Despite recent struggles in Liga MX with consecutive away losses, their continental form has been formidable.
They dispatched Inter Miami comfortably in the quarter-finals with an aggregate score of 5-2.
Team News
Columbus Team News
Columbus Crew will be without Christian Ramirez due to a thigh injury, and backup goalkeeper Evan Bush is sidelined with a wrist issue.
However, Aidan Morris returns from suspension, adding depth to their midfield.
Monterrey Team News
For Monterrey, Jesus Manuel Corona is a doubt after picking up a minor knock, and Luis Romo remains a question mark due to an unspecified injury.
Changes in their starting lineup are anticipated, reflecting their strategic approach to fixture congestion.
Key Players
Columbus's Key Players
Diego Rossi and Patrick Schulte have been pivotal for Columbus.
Rossi's crucial goals in the quarter-finals and Schulte's heroics in the penalty shootout against Tigres highlight their impact.
Monterrey's Key Players
Brandon Vazquez and German Berterame will be crucial for Monterrey. Vazquez's scoring prowess has been vital in their Champions Cup run, while Berterame's recent form adds a significant attacking threat.
Scoreline Prediction
The match is likely to be tightly contested with both teams showing strong defensive capabilities and resilience under pressure.
A draw seems probable, but expect both teams to score as they look to gain an advantage in the tie.
FAQs
What was the score the last time Columbus played Monterrey? Last time, Monterrey knocked Columbus out of the competition in the 2021 quarter-finals with a 5-2 aggregate score.
Who are Columbus playing next? Columbus will be focusing on their next MLS fixture after the Champions Cup clash.
Who are Monterrey playing next? Monterrey will return to Liga MX action following their Champions Cup match.
Who is Columbus's top player this season? Diego Rossi has been one of the standout performers and key scorers for Columbus this season.
Who is Monterrey's top scorer this season? Brandon Vazquez has been leading the scoring charts for Monterrey in their current campaign.
