By Alonso Contreras
On the pinnacle Saturday of the Major League Soccer 2023 season, the grand final unfolded with intense drama. Columbus Crew, having clinched the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference, fought their way through a challenging journey. They triumphed over Atlanta United in a three-game series, vanquishing Orlando City 2-0 on the road in the next phase. Subsequently, they faced FC Cincinnati in the conference final, showcasing their resilience with a remarkable comeback from 0-2 to 3-2 in overtime. This marked their fourth league final appearance, having previously claimed victory in 2008 and 2020, but falling short in 2015.
On the opposing side, LAFC, the defending champions from 2022, confidently advanced to their second consecutive final. They navigated past Vancouver before conquering the Seattle Sounders, overcoming the haunting memories of a previous defeat in the conference final against the same club that denied the victory to the Supporter Shield triumph 2019 to advanced to MLS Cup 2019. The journey continued with a victory over Houston, the US Open Cup Champion, propelling them into the grand final.
Columbus Crew demonstrated unwavering determination throughout the season, earning a reputation as a team that fights until the last second. Their formidable offensive trident, featuring Cucho Martinez, Diego Rossi, and Christian Ramirez, proved to be a potent force. The leadership of captain Nagbe, a three-time MLS Cup winner, and the overall squad’s physical prowess contributed to their success on the field.
In contrast, LAFC boasted the MLS top scorer, the defensive prowess of Gieorgio Chiellini, and the skillful Carlos Vela, complemented by the excellence of full-back Palacios. However, within the first fifteen minutes of the grand final, Columbus Crew’s relentless counterattacks overwhelmed LAFC, with Chiellini standing tall in defense. A clear handball in the LAFC area resulted in a penalty, expertly converted by Cucho Martinez, providing Columbus with a 1-0 lead.
A dazzling deep pass from Amundsen set up Yeboah’s sublime finish, extending Columbus’s lead to 2-0. The remainder of the first half showcased Columbus’s dominance, leaving LAFC struggling to mount a counteroffensive.
Despite LAFC’s second-half resurgence and a goal by Buoanga, Columbus maintained control, thwarting LAFC’s attempts to level the score. Tactical prowess, strategic substitutions, and defensive adjustments by Coach Wilfred played a pivotal role in containing LAFC’s offense.
As the final whistle blew, Columbus emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, securing the title of Major League Soccer Champions 2023. The match encapsulated the essence of soccer, featuring skillful plays, strategic brilliance, and a well-deserved triumph for Columbus Crew.