Minnesota United (11-19-3, 36 points) versus Columbus Crew (13-11-9, 48 points)
4:30 PM EST/3: 30 PM CST, ESPN +, MAPFRE Stadium
The Columbus Crew have stumbled their way into a crucial decision day match-up against Minnesota United on Sunday. Over the last six games (a total of 18 points available) the Crew have gained a total of five points. As a result, if Sunday doesn’t go as planned they don’t deserve their spot.
If Columbus can put it together for a game, the Crew won’t likely be a preferred or enjoyable sixth seed for NYCFC (or anyone else) when the playoffs commence.
Berhalter said to his players recently that Sunday “is a game you guys will remember for your whole careers.”
If the Crew record goes to five points out of twenty-one possible to end the season and Berhalter’s club exits what was a surefire playoff spot weeks ago as a result, I’m guessing it will be ingrained in Berhalter’s head as well.
If the Crew were to finish the season limping out of the playoffs one would think that would take the luster away from a expected USMNT hiring as well for Berhalter.
How couldn’t it?
Luckily there is no clause (gentleman’s agreement) for Justin Meram to sit out this week. To be fair when the opponent has zero chance to make the playoffs that sort of agreement should go out the window since that game didn’t matter at all for Orlando SC.
But, Columbus and Berhalter are true to their word which will do wonders if they exit the playoffs.
After Lampson, Quintero, Ibarra, I don’t recognize most of the names on the Minnesota United rosterjust being honest.
I need to learn more about what may be the best name in soccer. Fernando Bob.
Columbus Crew
Minnesota United FC
