The Columbus Crew head into the Leagues Cup break after facing off against Atlanta United. On the back of a disappointing 1-1 draw with Charlotte FC at home, the Crew looked to regain momentum and keep their name in the Supporters Shield race. Atlanta were looking for revenge, as the Five Stripes dropped the previous matchup with Columbus to start the 2024 MLS season with a 1-0 loss. It was Atlanta United who came out victorious with a 2-1 win gaining a crucial three points.

Within the first several minutes of the game, the Crew had two great opportunities to take the lead early, but both Cucho Hernandez and Alex Matan could not get their respective shots on frame.

Nicholas Hagen was called into action early, when his fumbled save fell to the feet of Jamal Thiare. Thiare was able to collect and attempted to get around an on-rushing Hagen before being taken down by the Guatemalan keeper. A penalty was called by the match official, but was soon canceled out as Thiare was in an offside position.

Hagen then made two saves to keep Atlanta United off of the board, but questions loomed large over just how the Crew backline could handle long balls.

Diego Rossi was first to get on the scoreboard, when Matan dribbled to the end line before squaring the ball back to the center of the penalty box. Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan parried the ball away, but Rossi was the first to pounce on the rebound and slide it into the back of the net.

In the second half, Atlanta United got themselves back into the game through a rising header from Stian Gregersen to level the match at 1-1. Gregersen then was on the end of yet another rising header in the 77th minute to give the Five Stripes a 2-1 lead.

The Crew came close to getting another goal, but Max Arfsten’s cross to the center of the box towards Hernandez was hit just a bit too far in front of the Colombian forward.

Deep into second half stoppage time, Hernandez just missed the far corner of the net on his shot from distance.

Too hot too soon?

There could be talk that the Columbus Crew heated up too soon, as they entered the match against Atlanta with one defeat in their last 11 matches. Though there is no concern, as the Crew still hold good positioning in the eastern conference.

Set piece disaster

Defensive set pieces weren’t a problem when the Crew defeated LAFC 5-1, even with the aerial threat of Kei Kamara. However, the team lacked confidence in defensive set pieces in their 2-1 loss to Atlanta United, as Stian Gregersen scored twice with rising headers off of two corner kicks.

What’s next?

Five members from the Crew will feature in the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday. Kickoff from Lower.com Field against Liga MX All-Stars is set for 7:30 p.m. EDT. You can watch the match on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.