First MLS Win vs Columbus Crew

Lore & Background

Before this match, there was uncertainty about whether a new franchise could succeed immediately in Major League Soccer. The atmosphere inside Bobby Dodd Stadium on that April evening was palpable, filled with the energy of thousands of fans eager to see their team win for the first time. This victory transformed nervous anticipation into electric belief among the supporters. It proved Atlanta United belonged in MLS and set the tone for immediate playoff contention. The performance showcased the quality of talent signed before kickoff, particularly in attack, creating a benchmark for future success.

In Their Own Story

The stadium lights hummed overhead as the crowd roared, a sea of red filling every seat at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. When the striker received the ball near the box, time seemed to slow down. A strike into the corner sent the entire building shaking. It wasn't just a goal; it was validation for everyone who had waited years for this moment.

Reader's Guide

Match Date: April 15, 2017 marked the turning point of the inaugural season. Opponent: The Columbus Crew SC faced the new franchise in their home opener for a win. Scoreline: A decisive 3-1 victory silenced early critics of the expansion team immediately. Key Plays: Josef Martinez delivered a clinical brace to lead the attack, showcasing the striker talent acquired before kickoff. Emotional Resonance: This match transformed nervous anticipation into electric belief among the supporters at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It proved Atlanta United belonged in MLS and set the tone for immediate playoff contention. The atmosphere was deafening as the stadium filled to capacity, creating a new benchmark for home advantage in the league. Fans remember this night not just as a win, but as the birth of a winning culture in Atlanta.

Did You Know?

• This match was Atlanta United's first-ever official victory in Major League Soccer history.
• Josef Martinez scored two goals during this historic win against Columbus.
• The game took place at Bobby Dodd Stadium, as Mercedes-Benz Stadium had not yet opened.

The Road to Redemption

Following a disappointing 2022 campaign where the franchise missed the postseason for the second straight year, the Columbus Crew embarked on a dramatic turnaround under new leadership. Head coach Wilfried Nancy replaced Caleb Porter in December, implementing a distinct possession-based philosophy that emphasized wing play and attacking fluidity. Although the season began with mixed results, including a mid-year slump that saw the team drop to tenth place, the squad found its rhythm after a strategic summer overhaul. Key departures were offset by the acquisition of dynamic talents like Julian Gressel and Diego Rossi, who injected fresh energy into the lineup. This tactical shift propelled the Crew to an impressive unbeaten run at home and secured their status as the league's highest-scoring team with 67 goals. By finishing third in the Eastern Conference, their best regular-season standing since 2009, they not only clinched a playoff berth but also set the stage for a historic championship run that would culminate on their own turf.

Playoff Dominance and Resilience

The path to the MLS Cup final was defined by high-stakes drama and remarkable resilience against formidable opponents. In the opening round, the Crew faced a best-of-three series against Atlanta United FC, where they initially suffered a shock defeat in the second leg after taking an early lead. However, displaying immense character, Columbus dominated the decisive third match with three first-half goals to force their way through to the Conference Semifinals. Their journey continued with a grueling extra-time victory over Orlando City SC, a result that shattered a sixteen-match winless streak in away playoff matches. This resilience was crucial as they navigated an expanded five-round postseason format involving eighteen teams. Each match required overcoming significant hurdles, including playing against top-tier competition without having faced them during the regular season. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure in single-elimination rounds highlighted their mental fortitude, ultimately earning them a spot in the championship game against the defending champions.

The Championship Match

On December 9, 2023, Lower.com Field hosted the 28th edition of the MLS Cup as the Columbus Crew faced off against Los Angeles FC. Despite LAFC holding a perfect head-to-head record with seven goals to zero in their previous three meetings, the home crowd witnessed a historic upset. The match was decided by Cucho Hernández, who stepped up to convert a penalty kick for the opening goal and was subsequently named the Most Valuable Player of the game. Columbus held firm against the defending Western Conference champions to secure a 2–1 victory, clinching their third MLS Cup title in franchise history. This triumph not only avenged previous losses but also marked the conclusion of a grueling playoff tournament that spanned from late October to early December. The win was particularly sweet given that the two finalists had finished third in their respective conferences and never met during the regular season, making this championship encounter a unique and defining moment for both clubs.

Legacy and Continental Rewards

The significance of this victory extended far beyond the final whistle, securing substantial rewards on the continental stage. As champions, the Crew earned an automatic berth into the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup, the premier club competition in North America, where they received a bye to the round of 16. Additionally, the title granted them the honor of hosting the 2024 Campeones Cup against the Mexican league's top representative. This triumph also served as a powerful statement for the franchise, which had narrowly avoided relocation to Austin just five years prior. By winning on their home soil in front of a passionate fanbase, the team solidified its identity and future within the city of Columbus. The success validated the ownership group's vision and the coaching staff's tactical evolution, proving that with the right leadership and squad cohesion, the Crew could once again stand atop Major League Soccer.