COLUMBUS – The Columbus Crew are into the semifinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 win over New York City FC on Wednesday night at Scotts Miracle-Gro Field. Max Arfsten got the lone goal for the Black & Gold, with Nicholas Hagen pitching his second shutout of the tournament.

A lackadaisical first half from both sides saw few chances created. Interim head coach Laurent Courtois opted to return the Crew to a 3-4-2-1 formation, which gave Columbus more fluidity and familiarity. The best chance of the Crew came in the latter stages of the half, with the Crew pulling off two close-range shots on NYCFC keeper Matt Freese, but the American netminder stood tall to pull off the double save.

Columbus started the second half strong, but nearly fluffed their lines early on when Hagen nearly got intercepted in his own penalty area, but the deflection went out for a goal kick.

In the 59th minute, Columbus broke the deadlock. Nariman Akhundzada found Arfsten making a streaking run on the left, placing a perfect through ball into the Americans’ path. The wingback collected and drilled a low, driven finesse shot towards the back post and out of the reach of Freese.

Columbus nearly doubled their lead late in the second half, with Hugo Picard and Jamal Thiare having their shots on goal saved by Freese, respectively.

The visitors appealed for a handball against defender Rudy Camacho, but the referee deemed Camacho’s movement natural and waved play on.

New York City pushed aggressively for an equalizer, getting numbers forward and generating multiple scoring opportunities in the attacking third. The Crew, however, responded with strong defense, remaining compact and disciplined under pressure. Columbus closed down passing lanes, won key aerial battles, and limited the Pigeon’s ability to generate clean finishing opportunities. Despite the sustained pressure in the closing minutes, the Crew held firm to preserve the result.

“It’s incredible,” said Courtois. “So happy for the guys, for the Club, and for me. It’s nice. Like you said, we were feeling bad about not only the loss but the way we lost over there.

“To make it right tonight in front of the fans that way was really good. Really proud of the spirit. How the reserves came in and how the ones that came off support each other, that was good to see.”

Columbus has a chance to chase a trophy they last won over 2 decades ago.

“That’s what I told them just literally before the game starts. We talked a lot about the quality of their heart, but let’s come back to talk about their winning mentality because they won everything in this league. They should remind a few people. Tonight, they did it,” said Courtois post-game.

What’s next?

The Crew now faces Orlando City SC in the semifinals. The match is set to be played at Scotts Miracle-Gro Field, with kickoff and date to be determined.