Columbus Crew celebrated their victory in the 2024 Leagues Cup final, defeating Los Angeles FC with a score of 3-1, thanks to a standout performance by striker Cucho Hernandez, who scored twice and provided an assist.
Hernandez opened the scoring with a header just before halftime, connecting with a cross from Mo Farsi. Columbus maintained their lead until the 57th minute when Olivier Giroud scored LAFC’s equalizer from a corner kick, making it 1-1.
The teams remained tied as the game entered stoppage time, where, according to Leagues Cup regulations, if no further goals were scored, the match would be decided by penalty kicks. However, Hernandez struck again in the 90+1 minute, scoring from the edge of the LAFC box and regaining the lead for Columbus.
In the final moments, Hernandez set up Jacen Russell-Rowe, who sealed the win with a third goal, confirming a 3-1 victory for the Crew.
This triumph marks the Crew’s second title in less than a year, having claimed the MLS Cup title in December 2023 with a 2-1 win over LAFC.
The match was attended by 20,190 fans at Lower.com Field, representing a sellout crowd.
Hernandez’s impressive performance included a first-half goal, a second goal in stoppage time, and an assist for Russell-Rowe’s goal. The Crew demonstrated strong control throughout the match, especially in terms of possession, dominating with a 66% possession rate in the first half.
Following the match, Columbus Crew’s path to the final included wins over Sporting Kansas City, Inter Miami, New York City FC, and the Philadelphia Union, showcasing their tournament strength. Meanwhile, LAFC’s journey featured victories against teams such as Austin FC and the Seattle Sounders.
This match also marked a special occasion for fans as the Ohio State marching band performed before and during halftime, building excitement around the event.