USA Major League Soccer Champions

Columbus Crew Crowned 2022 MLs Cup Winners

Crew Defeat Los Angeles FC 2-1 in Thrilling Final

The Columbus Crew are the 2022 Major League Soccer (MLS) champions after defeating Los Angeles FC (LAFC) 2-1 in a gripping final at Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles. Midfielder Lucas Zelarayan proved to be the hero for the Crew, scoring the game-winning goal in the 87th minute.

The match started at a blistering pace, with both teams eager to draw first blood. Columbus struck first in the 15th minute when Zelarayan converted a penalty after LAFC defender Mamadou Fall was ruled to have fouled Yaw Yeboah in the box. However, LAFC equalized just four minutes later through a header from forward Christian Arango.

The second half remained equally tense, with both sides creating chances but failing to find the go-ahead goal. As the match entered its final stages, the Crew made a tactical substitution, bringing on winger Pedro Santos for Artur. This move provedpivotal as Santos played a key role in the winning goal.

In the 87th minute, Zelarayan received the ball in midfield and played a defense-splitting pass to Santos on the left flank. Santos carried the ball into the LAFC penalty area and squared it to Zelarayan, who slotted home from close range. The Crew held on for the remaining minutes to secure their second MLS Cup triumph.

Columbus's victory marks a remarkable achievement for a team that finished the regular season in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. The Crew showed great resilience and determination throughout the playoffs, overcoming higher-seeded opponents to reach the final. LAFC, who had won the Supporters' Shield as the league's best regular-season team, will be disappointed but will no doubt be back in contention next year.

The MLS Cup title is a fitting reward for the Columbus Crew and their loyal fans. The team has a rich history in the league and has now cemented its place among the MLS elite. The Crew's triumph serves as an inspiration to all teams, proving that anything is possible with hard work and belief.