As anticipation builds for the impending showdown between Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Columbus Crew, one can't help but ask: will LAFC finally snap out of their recent slump against the Crew? Both teams have started strong, each sporting a 2-0-0 mark. But Columbus are blessed with history, having beaten their last two encounters, not least a dominative 5-1 win in July 2024. The two sides are eager to be the dominant force in this match, this game will be a cracker.
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Led by manager Steve Cherundolo, LAFC has come out undefeated this season, securing two victories in their first two games. They have been best at home, both of these victories coming at BMO Stadium. Their offense is evident with a per-game average of 1.7 expected goals (xG) and their defense appearing to be solid as they've conceded a per-game average of 0.7 expected goals against (xGA).
During their recent outing on 1st March 2025, LAFC hosted New York City FC. In a demonstration of attacking depth for LAFC, the club achieved goals via Denis Bouanga and Olivier Giroud as they recorded a 2-0 victory. In defense, captain Giorgio Chiellini and his cast did their part well as they strangled NYCFC into having very few scoring opportunities.
Injuries and suspensions have not yet impacted LAFC's roster significantly, allowing Cherundolo to employ his preferred lineup. The team's cohesion and tactical adaptability
Columbus Crew
Led by manager Wilfried Nancy, Columbus Crew has replicated the strong beginning LAFC made, collecting for themselves a 2-0-0 record as well. The team has shown versatility by recording both a home win and an away win, reflecting its flexibility across environments. The Crew has been attacking abundantly on offense, posting 2.8 xG per match. However, its defense has shown weakness, with a mean xGA of 2.0, indicating areas for improvement.
On the 1st of March, 2025, Columbus Crew played the New England Revolution. The match was closely fought, and Columbus emerged victorious by a 1-0 difference. The opening arrived in the 51st minute when Jacen Russell-Rowe netted into the goal with a pass from Mohamed Farsi. Despite New England pressing for an equal scoreline, Columbus's defense was resolute as they secured all three points.
The Crew's attacking unit, led by Diego Rossi and Juan Camilo 'Cucho' Hernández, has been the success factor at the front. But the defensive mistakes observed in the recent games point towards the need for stronger solidity in defense if they must continue their winning run.
Head to Head
Historically, Columbus Crew and LAFC have faced each other five times, with a slight edge for LAFC at three wins to Columbus's two. Most recently, however, the Crew have been on top. Columbus took 2-1 in the MLS Cup on December 9, 2023, at Lower.com Field. This was followed by a dominant 5-1 win on July 13, 2024, at BMO Stadium, highlighting Columbus's recent dominance in this match.
Key figures have frequently dictated the results of such matches. For example, in the 2024 Leagues Cup final, Columbus's Diego Rossi and Juan Camilo 'Cucho' Hernández were instrumental in their 3-1 win against LAFC.
On the other hand, LAFC's offense's brilliance, like Denis Bouanga and Olivier Giroud, have a chance to turn the luck in their favor.
History of Head-to-Heads
CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 
Los Angeles FC
CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025
Columbus Crew
Leagues Cup Final Stage 2024
Los Angeles FC
Major League Soccer 2024
Columbus Crew
Major League Soccer Playoff 2023
Los Angeles FC
Los Angeles FC Latest Games
Los Angeles FC 
Los Angeles FC
Los Angeles FC
Seattle Sounders FC
Los Angeles FC
Houston Dynamo FC
Columbus Crew Latest Games
Columbus Crew 
Columbus Crew
Nashville SC
Columbus Crew
FC Cincinnati
Columbus Crew
Expert Betting Tips
1. Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Since both teams have good attacking numbers—LAFC averaging 1.7 xG and Columbus 2.8 xG per game—it's likely that both teams will score.
2. Over 2.5 Goals: Considering Columbus Crew's defensive vulnerabilities (2.0 xGA) and potent attack, their matches often have multiple goals. Coupled with LAFC's goal-scoring ability, over 2.5 goals could be a safe bet.
3. Columbus Crew Double Chance (Win or Draw): Columbus's recent record against LAFC, having won back-to-back games, suggests a psychological edge. Placing a double chance bet on the Crew offers a decent risk-reward ratio.
Other predictions
