Columbus Crew Secure No. 2 Seed in MLS Eastern Conference Playoffs

The Columbus Crew have secured the second spot in the Eastern Conference, ensuring they have home-field advantage for the initial game in their best-of-three playoff series, as well as a potential third game if needed. However, the specific dates for these first-round matches remain undecided, with an announcement expected following the league’s final regular-season games, known as ‘Decision Day.’

As the season wraps up, Columbus Crew await the results to determine their first-round opponent. Currently, Charlotte FC and New York Red Bulls are competing for sixth place in the conference, with Charlotte holding 48 points and New York 47. If both teams end the regular season tied, Charlotte will advance based on their advantage in wins—13 compared to New York’s 11.

A victory for Charlotte FC against D.C. United would secure their sixth position and set up a first-round matchup between Columbus Crew and New York Red Bulls. Conversely, a loss or draw from New York Red Bulls against the Crew could see them slip to seventh place if Charlotte wins their game. Regardless of these permutations, Columbus Crew has already started selling playoff tickets, which are available to the public via Ticketmaster.

In terms of recent performance, Columbus Crew enter the playoffs with momentum following a comprehensive 4-0 victory against the New England Revolution. This win marked a new club record for the Crew with 18 victories this season. Defensively, the Crew have been resilient, conceding the second-fewest goals in the Eastern Conference.

For New York Red Bulls, this has been a challenging close to the season, with the team managing only one win across their last ten matches. Despite their struggles, the Red Bulls have guaranteed themselves a spot in the playoffs. However, they remain one point shy of Charlotte and have been winless in their last five home fixtures.

Columbus Crew and New York Red Bulls are set to face each other at Red Bull Arena on Saturday, in what could affect final playoff seedings. The Crew will approach this game with no pressing stakes, having already secured their playoff positioning, but are expected to maintain their high level of play.