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Columbus Crew SC Vs Philadelphia Union: 3 things to watch for – Potential knockout round clash

By Elmer Plasencia

COLUMBUS, OH - SEPTEMBER 22: Columbus Crew fans react after a home win of the MLS regular season game between the Columbus Crew SC and the Colorado Rapids on September 22, 2018 at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus, OH. The Crew won 2-1. (Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - SEPTEMBER 22: Columbus Crew fans react after a home win of the MLS regular season game between the Columbus Crew SC and the Colorado Rapids on September 22, 2018 at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus, OH. The Crew won 2-1. (Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Federico Higuain (10) of Columbus Crew SC in action during the MLS regular season game between the Columbus Crew SC and the New York City FC on September 01, 2018 at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus, OH. (Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Federico Higuain (10) of Columbus Crew SC in action during the MLS regular season game between the Columbus Crew SC and the New York City FC on September 01, 2018 at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus, OH. (Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. Magic in the midfield

Both clubs number 10’s have been crucial to their success this season. Bořek Dočkal has been the engine to Philadelphia Union’s offense, with 15 assists and five goals this season. The Czech midfielder came to Philadelphia with great expectations and has largely lived up to his Designated Player status.

Equally, Federico “Pipa” Higuain is the conductor for Crew’s offense. Coach Gregg Berhalter tasks the Argentinian playmaker with a heavy responsibility to facilitate his teammates on offense and create scoring opportunities for Gyasi Zardes. Pipa has been up to the task so far this season tallying five goals and eight assists. Against Colorado this past weekend, he was involved in both goals, earning MLS Team of the Week honors.

How these two perform and are able to create opportunities will greatly determine the result of the match. Both playmakers will be looking to provide the crucial goal to give their team an important three points as the MLS Cup Playoffs quickly approach.

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