Match Summary
Columbus Crew defeated Colorado Rapids 3:2. The match was played in Major League Soccer 2023. Goals were scored by S. Nicholson 9′, L. Zelarayán 37′, S. Zawadzki 62′, C. Hernández 72′, C. Bassett 90′. 2 yellow cards were shown. Columbus Crew had 63% possession while Colorado Rapids held 37%. Columbus Crew had 17 shots (6 on target) compared to 9 (3 on target) for Colorado Rapids. Expected goals: Columbus Crew 1.20 — Colorado Rapids 1.23. Columbus Crew made 3 substitutions, Colorado Rapids made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Columbus Crew and Colorado Rapids — 5 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Y. Yeboah
assist: L. Zelarayán
assist: L. Zelarayán
assist: C. Harris
Match Statistics
Columbus Crew had 63% possession against Colorado Rapids's 37%. Columbus Crew registered 17 shots (6 on target) while Colorado Rapids managed 9 (3 on target). Corner kicks: 7–0. Fouls committed: 6–5.
Lineups
Columbus Crew lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation under W. Nancy, while Colorado Rapids deployed a 3-5-2 under R. Fraser.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Columbus Crew is 6.88, compared to 6.79 for Colorado Rapids. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Columbus Crew's highest-rated starter is S. Moreira (6.90), while Colorado Rapids's best-rated player is K. Rosenberry (6.79).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Columbus Crew have contributed 1 goals and 2 assists this season, led by S. Moreira (1G). Colorado Rapids's starters account for 2 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by K. Rosenberry (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Columbus Crew deploy 3 defenders rated 6.90 on average, against Colorado Rapids's 3-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Columbus Crew field 4 midfielders averaging 6.90, versus Colorado Rapids's 5 rated 6.79. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Columbus Crew start 3 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 2 for Colorado Rapids averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 53% for Columbus Crew and —% for Colorado Rapids. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Columbus Crew's starters have collected 8 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Colorado Rapids. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Columbus Crew's starting XI is 29.5 (youngest: P. Schulte (24), oldest: D. Nagbe (35)), while Colorado Rapids average 30.3 (youngest: J. Lewis (28), oldest: K. Rosenberry (32)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Columbus Crew's starters average 30 league appearances each, versus 8 for Colorado Rapids. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Columbus Crew have recorded 2 wins, 1 draws and 3 defeats. Colorado Rapids show 1 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses from their last 6 outings.
Columbus Crew
Colorado Rapids
API data: 15 Mar 2026