Sat May 31 22:40:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Inter Miami Faces Tough Test Against Columbus Crew in Clash of Leagues Cup Champions**

MIAMI – Fresh off a 4-2 victory over CF Montréal, Inter Miami CF looks to build momentum as they host the Columbus Crew SC this Saturday in a highly anticipated MLS match. The game features a clash of the two most recent Leagues Cup champions, with Miami claiming the title in 2023 and Columbus in 2024.

Inter Miami, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, received a boost with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez both scoring twice in their win against Montréal, marking Suárez’s third and fourth goals of the season. Messi also achieved a milestone, becoming the first Inter Miami player to reach 50 goal contributions in regular season play.

Columbus, led by head coach Wilfried Nancy, will be a formidable opponent. The Crew are seeking to rebound after a recent loss to Charlotte FC and a draw against Nashville SC. They previously lost to Miami 1-0 earlier this year in Cleveland, despite dominating in chances and expected goals (xG).

Miami’s defense will face a stern challenge from the Crew’s attack, featuring Daniel Gazdag and Diego Rossi, with Rossi contributing three goals and eight assists this season. Columbus’s defense is also solid, ranking third in the conference with just 19 goals conceded, but hasn’t kept a clean sheet in 11 matches.

Injuries continue to plague Miami, with Jordi Alba and Yannick Bright sidelined after picking up hamstring injuries. Despite defensive struggles, Miami recently re-signed goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.

A win could propel Miami as high as third in the Eastern Conference, depending on other results. The team is also preparing for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, which begins June 14.

Columbus, who are only two points ahead of Miami in the table, will be without first-choice goalkeeper Patrick Schulte due to injury.

The match promises to be a competitive encounter, with Inter Miami aiming to continue their winning ways and Columbus seeking to return to form.
**Prediction: Inter Miami 2-2 Columbus Crew SC**

Read More