Columbus Crew claimed the Leagues Cup title after defeating Los Angeles FC (LAFC) 3-1 in the final, thanks to a remarkable performance from Colombian forward Juan Camilo “Cucho” Hernández, who scored two goals and provided an assist.
This victory marks Columbus Crew’s second title in less than a year and solidifies their dominance over LAFC, having beaten them in both finals they have faced. The team, coached by Wilfried Nancy, is also the reigning MLS Cup champion, having defeated LAFC 2-1 in the MLS Cup final last December. They had previously reached the final of the Concacaf Champions Cup, where they lost to Pachuca in June.
Columbus Crew took over from Inter Miami, who won the inaugural edition of the Leagues Cup last year with Lionel Messi. LAFC, the reigning MLS Cup and MLS Supporters’ Shield winner from 2022, came into this match seeking revenge not only for their most recent defeat in the MLS Cup but also for a prior 5-1 loss against Columbus in league play.
From the outset, both teams displayed impressive offensive capabilities but with contrasting strategies: Columbus Crew focused on maintaining possession, while LAFC aimed to capitalize on counterattacks. The start of the match saw LAFC hold their ground until Columbus began to make headway with Max Arfsten creating opportunities down the left flank.
The deadlock was broken just before halftime when Cucho Hernández scored with an outstanding header off a well-placed corner by Mohamed Farsi. While LAFC appeared solid defensively, they struggled offensively.
LAFC reacted in the second half, first with a disallowed goal from Mateusz Bogusz for offside and then with Olivier Giroud’s equalizer, scored via another header from a corner kick, marking his first goal with LAFC.
Following the equalizer, LAFC looked stronger, pushing forward as the match seemed to be heading for a penalty shootout. However, in a stunning twist in the 92nd minute, Cucho Hernández struck again, scoring a goal that slipped through the LAFC defense without any contact before finding the back of the net.
Cucho’s night of brilliance was capped off just two minutes later when he assisted Jacen Russell-Rowe’s goal, sealing the victory for Columbus Crew.
Both Columbus Crew and LAFC secured spots in the next Concacaf Champions Cup by reaching the final. In another match, the Colorado Rapids earned a ticket by winning against the Philadelphia Union in the consolation match.