From heartbreak to heroics, Columbus Crew’s MLS Cup titles tell a story of grit, glory and a club that never stopped evolving. Here’s how each championship was won.
In a league known for parity and unpredictability, few clubs have carved out a championship identity quite like the Columbus Crew. Since their inaugural season in 1996, the black and gold have quietly built a legacy of resilience.
Their MLS Cup victories didn’t come in waves, but when they arrived, they reshaped the team’s trajectory. Each title marked not only a tactical evolution but also a cultural shift, moments when they emerged from the shadows.
From early ambition to modern dominance, the Crew’s championship story spans decades, stadiums and generations of talent. This is not just a record of trophies, it’s a timeline of triumphs that helped define a club and a city.
2008
In 2008, the Columbus Crew etched their name into Major League Soccer history by capturing their first-ever MLS Cup title. Under the tactical leadership of head coach Sigi Schmid and the on-field brilliance of Argentine legend Guillermo Barros Schelotto, they delivered a season of dominance.
This ulminated in a 3–1 victory over the New York Red Bulls in the final held at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California. That year, the Crew had finished atop the regular season standings, earning the Supporters’ Shield, but it was the final that truly defined their campaign.
With the eyes of the soccer world upon them, they stepped onto the pitch with poise and precision. Schelotto, already hailed for his vision and creativity, put on a masterclass — assisting all three goals in a performance that would become the stuff of legend.
Chad Marshall and Alejandro Moreno added their names to the scoresheet, and Frankie Hejduk sealed the win with a third goal in the 82nd minute. Schelotto was rightfully named MLS Cup MVP, a fitting recognition for a player who had lifted the club to new heights.
2020
Twelve years after their first triumph, Columbus Crew rose again — this time under the shadow of a global pandemic. The 2020 season was unlike any other: disrupted by COVID-19, marred by uncertainty, and played in front of empty stands. Yet amid the chaos, they found clarity and purpose.
Led by head coach Caleb Porter, the team marched into the playoffs with quiet confidence. In the final, played at Mapfre Stadium — the first soccer-specific stadium in MLS history — they faced off against the reigning champions, Seattle Sounders FC.
With fans scattered across living rooms instead of stadium seats, they delivered a performance for the ages. Argentine playmaker Lucas Zelarayán was electric. His two goals and one assist made him the undisputed MVP of the match.
Derrick Etienne Jr. also added a goal, capping off a 3–0 demolition of one of MLS’s most feared teams. Columbus wasn’t just back on top; they were transcendent. The victory represented more than silverware.
2023
By 2023, Columbus Crew had evolved. A new stadium, a new coach and a new generation of talent marked the dawn of a fresh chapter, one that would lead them to their third and last (so far) MLS Cup title.
The setting was Lower.com Field, a modern arena in the heart of Columbus. The opponent: Los Angeles FC, the reigning champions and one of the league’s biggest powerhouses. But they, led by charismatic head coach Wilfried Nancy, were unfazed.
His fluid, possession-based system had transformed the team into one of the most watchable and efficient squads in MLS. From the opening whistle, Columbus seized control.
Cucho Hernández, the Colombian striker with a knack for big moments, opened the scoring from the penalty spot. Aidan Morris doubled the lead before halftime, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. LAFC responded with a goal from Denis Bouanga, but it wasn’t enough.
Columbus held on for a 2–1 win, securing their third title in 15 years and solidifying their place among the league’s elite. Hernández was named MVP, a reward for his relentless work and clinical finishing.
From: bolavip.com
