The Columbus Crew had a first half to forget in Saturday’s Eastern Conference Final at TQL Stadium, but Wilfried Nancy’s squad eventually fought back and sealed their berth into next weekend’s MLS Cup.
Christian Ramirez’s 115th minute winning goal helped the Crew eliminative rivals FC Cincinnati 3-2 and cap off a memorable comeback in Ohio. An Alvas Powell own goal paired with Diego Rossi’s equalizing goal forced extra time before Ramirez played the hero.
Brandon Vazquez struck first for FC Cincinnati after 14 minutes, giving the Supporters’ Shield holders a 1-0 lead. Aaron Boupendza connected with Vazquez before the U.S. men’s national team forward slotted home down the middle of the net.
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Despite ample pressure from the Crew, FC Cincy padded their lead before halftime. Luciano Acosta’s right-footed free kick nestled into the bottom-right corner making it 2-0 to the hosts.
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However, the Crew would grind their way back into the match through Powell’s own goal in the 75th minute. Julian Gressel’s cross from the right wing deflected into the back of the net off Powell, cutting the Crew’s deficit to 2-1.
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Diego Rossi equalized two minutes before stoppage time, forcing an extra 30 minutes from Cincinnati. A superb team play ended with Cucho Hernandez setting up Rossi for a confident right-footed shot.
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After being denied by Roman Celentano earlier in extra time, Ramirez found himself in the perfect spot to score the winning goal. Kevin Molino’s cross towards the back post was headed back across the box by Hernandez, allowing Ramirez to finish into an empty net.
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Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte made four key saves, playing a key role on their advancement to a second MLS Cup in the past four seasons. Columbus will host either LAFC or the Houston Dynamo on Dec. 9.
FC Cincinnati’s best-ever MLS season came to a painful end, with several key players missing in the final match of the season.
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