Minnesota United vs Columbus Crew Prediction: A draw is the most likely result

The round 2 of the MLS campaign continues with Minnesota United taking on Columbus Crew at the Allianz Field. Both clubs won their first match, as Minnesota United defeated Austin FC, while Columbus Crew defeated Atlanta United. 

The last time Minnesota United and Columbus Crew played against each other was in the Leagues Cup last year and Minnesota United won on penalties after both sides drew 3-3 in full time. And the last time Minnesota United hosted Columbus Crew at the Allianz Field was back in 2019 and Minnesota United won the game by a single goal.

Minnesota United

Minnesota United have put the minds of their fans at rest following the opening day win against Austin FC. They had a worrying run during the preseason and it was unclear how the team would begin the season, but they did in style. 

Robin Lod and Alejandro Bran both found the back of the net in the game against Austin FC. It was a very attacking display from Minnesota United and their stats were quite impressive. They registered 10 shots on target and 16 corner kicks in the game. 

Cameron Knowles played 4-3-3 against Austin FC and he is most likely expected to retain that shape against Columbus Crew. Robin Lod was the best player on the pitch against Austin FC. He put in a dominant display in the midfield as he had 2 shots on target, he also created 1 big chance and missed 1 big chance and hit the woodwork once. Joseph Rosales also had a good game at right back. He made 4 clearances, 1 interception and 2 tackles in the game. And at the frontlines, Teemu Pukki had a good game. He played for only 68 minutes and although he failed to score, he had 1 shot on target, 1 key pass and created 1 big chance.

Columbus Crew

Columbus Crew fought hard to earn all 3 points in their opening game against Atlanta United. Cucho Hernandez scored the only goal that separated both sides and helped Columbus Crew pick up all 3 points. He had a chance to double the lead from the spot in the 54th minute, but his attempt was saved by the Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan. Columbus Crew got the win but their performance was not as bright as they would have hoped. They managed 48% possession, 3 shots on target and 3 corner kicks. 

Wilfried Nancy played a 3-4-2-1 formation and it's unclear if he might maintain it against Minnesota United. Mohammed Farsi, Darlington Nagbe and Aidan Morris all had a good game at the heart of the midfield. At the heart of defense, Sean Zawadzki, Malte Amundsen and Rudy Camacho were in fine form to help keep a clean sheet. Cucho Hernandez was arguably the best player on the pitch for Columbus Crew. Besides scoring the goal, he played 3 shots on target and 2 key passes in the game.

Head to Head

Minnesota United and Columbus Crew have played only 7 matches against each other. Columbus Crew won 4 of the 7 matches and Minnesota United won 3 matches.

Analysis and Predictions

Both teams have done so well to get the first win and now they can build on that. There's going to be little to separate these two teams in this game and Minnesota United might have just a little advantage of playing at home.

According to the h2h, Minnesota United are without a clean sheet in the last 3 meetings and Columbus Crew in the last 5. Both teams scored in 4 of the last 5 meetings. There were also less than 4.5 cards in 6 of their last 7 matches.

• Home Win or Draw and Over 1.5 Goals at 1.85 Odds
• Draw FT at 3.8 Odds
• Correct Score 1-1 at 7.50 Odds