Columbus Crew Vs Minnesota United: 3 things to watch for – Cup contenders clash
By Harvey Cruz
2. Who wins the midfield battle?
With any great team comes a great engine, and that engine is designed in midfield. Both teams serve similar midfields and it’s in the middle of the pitch where this game will be won or lost.
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For the Columbus Crew, Artur and Darlington Nagbe have exceeded expectations as a duo in the center of the park. Nagbe, who came via trade from Atlanta United, has kept things ticking when in possession, making it difficult for opponents to press. He rarely loses the ball and eases the responsibilities on Artur, who can perform as a disruptor, breaking up attacks. Sebastian Berhalter has also held his own when coming off the bench. The result has led to complete control of matches.
Minnesota United, though, perhaps boast the best deep-lying double-pivot in all MLS. The experienced and hard-nosed Ozzie Alonso is never shy of a tackle and will impose himself on the pitch. while DP Jan Gregus has been one of their most influential players since his arrival before the 2019 season. He is coming off grabbing an assist against Colorado and will be key in stopping the Crew trying to dictate play.