Columbus Crew SC Vs Philadelphia Union: 3 things to watch for – Potential knockout round clash
1. When will the scoring drought end for Pedro Santos?
Pedro Santos arrived in Columbus in August of 2017 becoming the club’s third Designated Player. This distinction and his experience with Portuguese side Braga brought high expectations for Santos.
The winger has shown flashes of brilliance but has only found the back of the net once in his time in Columbus. Fans have shown displeasure with the lack of productivity from him at times as he has failed to score since March’s match versus D.C. United.
Despite the lack of goals, Santos has been involved in the offense this season from open play and set pieces. He has tallied seven assists this season with 18 shots on goal. As Crew SC approach the playoffs, it will be crucial for Santos to step up by getting on the scoresheet.
Only Gyasi Zardes and Federico Higuain have scored more than five goals this season. The team desperately needs goal production from other players in order to compete for an MLS Cup. The match against the Colorado Rapids was the highest offensive output Santos has had for the club from a shots and shots-on-goal standpoint since his arrival.
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Santos’ performance and the match-up of the attacking midfielders and goalkeepers will all be crucial in determining the outcome of this game. Crew SC will be looking to pick up all three points at home as the club prepares a push to bring the MLS Cup back to Columbus for the first time since 2008.