Inter Miami CF x Columbus Crew

Inter Miami CF secured a second consecutive win by defeating reigning MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew 2-1. The match was marked by the triumphant return of homegrown defender Ian Fray, who scored a goal in his first appearance and start since July 2023 following an injury. Striker Leonardo Campana added a second goal to clinch the victory at Chase Stadium. This win further solidifies Inter Miami's position atop the Supporters' Shield standings.

Inter Miami's starting lineup featured several changes from their recent road win over the Philadelphia Union. Drake Callender was in goal, with Fray, Sergii Kryvtsov, Noah Allen, and Jordi Alba forming the backline. The midfield comprised Julian Gressel, Sergio Busquets, and Yannick Bright, while Benjamin Cremaschi and Robert Taylor supported Campana in the attack. Fray's inclusion marked his first start since his injury last season.

The match started spectacularly for Inter Miami, with Fray scoring in the 10th minute from a delivery by Gressel, marking Fray's first goal of the season and Gressel's seventh assist. Inter Miami doubled their lead 11 minutes later through Campana, who capitalized on a high press to score his fifth goal of the season after an initial header was saved. Columbus Crew's Cucho Hernández pulled one back in the 40th minute, but a strong defensive effort and a crucial save from Callender in the 79th minute ensured the score remained 2-1, securing all three points for Inter Miami. Head coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance and their display of courage and resilience.

[Photography by Hannah Kevorkian]