Columbus Crew desperately need points on Thursday, Jul 23 at 1:30 AM in the MLS. With the team sitting in the bottom three, this is quickly becoming a must-win situation.

Columbus Crew come into this fixture struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5). New York City FC, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form (2W 1D 2L) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Columbus Crew won their last outing, while New York City FC suffered defeat — home advantage backed by momentum.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — Columbus Crew and New York City FC have split their 10 meetings almost evenly (3W–4D–3W). Their last encounter ended in Columbus Crew won 0–3. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.2 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Columbus Crew a slight edge, but New York City FC are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.