The upcoming MLS match between Columbus Crew SC and CF Montreal Impact is set to be a crucial encounter for both teams as they aim to improve their standings in the Eastern Conference. The game will take place at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET.
Columbus Crew SC: Home Advantage
Columbus Crew SC enters the match with a 3-0-3 record, showcasing a mix of highs and lows this season. They are currently mid-table in the Eastern Conference and are coming off a hard-fought 2-1 victory against DC United. The Crew has been strong at home, with two wins and one draw in their last three matches at Lower.com Field.
Key players for Columbus include forward Cucho Hernández, who has been instrumental in their attack with three goals and two assists this season. Another standout is midfielder Darlington Nagbe, whose ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively has been vital for the Crew’s success. Head coach Wilfried Nancy will look to leverage the team’s home advantage and tactical discipline to secure another win.
Defensively, Columbus has played solid, conceding only seven goals in six matches. However, they will need to maintain focus against a Montreal side desperate to find their footing.
CF Montreal Impact: Struggling for Form
CF Montreal Impact has had a tough start to the season, with a 0-4-2 record placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The team is coming off a 1-1 draw against Chicago Fire, where they showed glimpses of resilience but failed to capitalize on key opportunities. Montreal has struggled on the road, losing all three of their away matches this season.
Key players for Montreal include midfielder Victor Wanyama, who provides experience and physicality in the center of the pitch, and forward Sunusi Ibrahim, who has been one of the few bright spots with two goals this season. Head coach Hernán Losada will need to find a way to inspire his squad and address their defensive vulnerabilities, as they have conceded 12 goals in six matches.
Montreal’s historical record against Columbus at Lower.com Field has been poor, with their last win in Columbus dating back several years. They will need to overcome this psychological barrier to secure their first victory of the season.
Tactical Battle
This matchup is expected to be a tactical battle, with Columbus aiming to dominate possession and create chances through their midfield maestros, while Montreal will likely adopt a counter-attacking approach to exploit any defensive lapses. The midfield duel between Nagbe and Wanyama could be a key factor in determining the outcome.
Columbus’s home form and attacking quality give them the edge, but Montreal’s desperation for points could make them a dangerous opponent.
Columbus Crew SC – 225 Draw + 380 CF Montreal Impact + 550
Over 3 – 122 Under 3 + 102
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 4, 2025
