The Columbus Crew have secured the second seed in the Eastern Conference, ensuring they will have home-field advantage through the playoffs, at least until the Eastern Conference final—should they advance and face Inter Miami. While this weekend’s match holds no implications for seeding, the Crew are eager to accumulate points for a better chance to host the MLS Cup if they progress that far. Adding to the intrigue, the Crew will face their former head coach, Caleb Porter, as the New England Revolution comes to town. There’s plenty of pride at stake for both sides in this matchup.

Both teams will be navigating significant absences due to international call-ups and injuries. The Revolution will be without playmaker Carles Gil, who is sidelined with an injury, along with young standout forward Esmir Bajraktarevic and fullback Peyton Miller, who are away on international duty.

The Black & Gold, are also dealing with their share of absences. They will be down three goalkeepers: Patrick Schulte and Nicholas Hagen are representing their national teams, while Evan Bush remains unavailable due to injury. Defender Steven Moreira is out with an ankle injury, and midfielder Sean Zawadzki is sidelined with a rib injury. Additionally, wingback Mo Farsi, midfielder Taha Habroune, and forward Cucho Hernandez are all on international duty.

Despite these challenges, Columbus is prepared to field a competitive lineup. Goalkeeper Abraham Romero will have an opportunity to redeem himself after a difficult start against the Seattle Sounders, where he received a red card after a misjudged attempt to clear the ball. Given the restrictions on backup goalkeepers from MLS Next Pro, it is unlikely Columbus will have a substitute keeper available for this match.

Defensively, Rudy Camacho will take a central role as one of the center-backs, flanked by Malte Amundsen and wingback Andres Herrera. With both Farsi and Moreira unavailable, Herrera will shift back to center-back, allowing the Crew to evaluate his capabilities in that position.

Max Arfsten will step in as the right wingback, while DeJuan Jones, a former Revolution player, gets the chance to start on the opposite side. This lineup reshuffling highlights the Crew’s adaptability in the face of adversity.

Midfielder and captain Darlington Nagbe is expected to play a more offensive role, especially with New England missing key players like Bajraktarevic and Gil. Fans can anticipate a strong performance from Nagbe, potentially including one of his signature long-range shots. He will be joined in the midfield by Dylan Chambost, who provided two assists from corner kicks in the last match.

While Columbus will miss their leading goal contributor, Cucho Hernandez, the Crew’s forward line remains promising. Christian Ramirez, Diego Rossi, and Jacen Russell-Rowe will lead the attack. Rossi, with only three goals and one assist since the Leagues Cup, will be eager to elevate his performance as the playoffs approach. Despite a slow start, he has contributed 12 goals and 11 assists in the regular season, showcasing his potential to power the Black & Gold. Ramirez and Russell-Rowe will look to capitalize on Chambost’s set-piece deliveries.

As both teams gear up for this highly anticipated match, the stage is set for an exciting clash filled with competitive spirit and the quest for pride.