Columbus Crew Look to Continue Road Dominance Against New England Revolution

The Columbus Crew head to Foxborough on Saturday night, aiming to build on last season’s road success and keep their momentum rolling after an impressive start to 2024. Meanwhile, the New England Revolution are focused on turning Gillette Stadium into a fortress after struggling at home last year.

Columbus Crew Embracing Road Warrior Mentality

Columbus was one of the best road teams in MLS last season, setting a club-record nine wins and five draws in 17 away matches. That success fueled their run to the MLS Cup title, and they’re looking to maintain that same mentality this season.

Head coach Wilfried Nancy has made road performance a major focus since arriving in Columbus.

“It has been the focus since the first training when I came here because I wanted to respect (road matches),” Nancy said. “It was a discussion and a mindset. We play to win the game.”

The Crew started the new campaign strong, defeating Chicago Fire 4-2 in their season opener. Forward Diego Rossi led the way with two goals, stepping up as the team moves forward without last year’s top scorers, Cucho Hernandez and Christian Ramirez, who combined for 27 goals and 20 assists in 2023.

Despite those key departures, Rossi remains confident in his role.

“I always try to work and be better,” Rossi said. “So, it doesn’t matter who is on the team, I’m going to work for the team and for myself.”

With their proven ability to win on the road, Columbus will enter Foxborough full of confidence.

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New England Revolution Looking to Defend Their Home Turf

While Columbus thrived away from home last season, the Revolution struggled at Gillette Stadium, finishing with a 5-8-4 home record. Head coach Caleb Porter knows that needs to change in 2024, especially in front of their passionate supporters.

“We play for them,” Porter said. “They are the soul of the club. They bring purpose and meaning to our play, and we can’t wait to create a fortress this year where no one comes in getting points off us.”

New England began their season with a 0-0 draw at Nashville SC, a solid defensive result that showcased the impact of new center-backs Brayan Ceballos and Mamadou Fofana.

Ceballos, signed from Brazilian club Fortaleza, was especially impressive, earning a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday for his debut performance.

“The fans can expect to have a group of guys that are going to leave it all on the pitch,” Porter said. “You’re going to see 11 guys who are going to roll their sleeves up and work and fight for them. There were times last year that didn’t happen, and that was disappointing.”

With an upgraded defense and a renewed focus on home form, the Revolution will try to neutralize Columbus’s potent attack.

Key Factors to Watch

• Can Columbus Continue Their Road Dominance? The Crew were elite away from home last season and started 2024 with a strong win. Will they keep that momentum going?
• New England’s Defensive Reinforcements The additions of Ceballos and Fofana have already improved the Revolution’s backline. Can they hold up against a dangerous Columbus attack?
• Diego Rossi’s Role as a Primary Scorer With Hernandez and Ramirez gone, Rossi is stepping into a bigger role. After scoring twice last week, will he continue his hot form?
• New England’s Home Crowd Energy The Revolution averaged 29,262 fans per game last season, the fourth-highest in MLS. Will that support help them flip their home struggles from 2023?
• A Defensive Battle or a Shootout? Columbus scored four goals in their opener, while New England played a scoreless draw. Which style will define this match?

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Final Thoughts

Columbus enters this match with a proven track record of road success and an attack that already looks in sync. Meanwhile, New England is hoping to re-establish home-field advantage and build on their improved defensive structure.

Will the Crew’s attacking firepower be too much, or can the Revolution hold their ground and secure a much-needed home victory? Saturday’s showdown will provide early-season answers for both teams.