The Columbus Crew will begin their MLS Cup playoff campaign on November 21 with a road match against Inter Miami CF, the team led by Lionel Messi. The opening-round fixture was confirmed Sunday by the Columbus Dispatch.
Columbus, the 2023 MLS Cup champions, will travel to South Florida for the single-elimination game. Inter Miami, who secured the Supporters' Shield with the league's best regular-season record, will host the match at their home venue.
The matchup pits the Crew's experienced playoff core against a Miami side built around the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who joined the club in July 2023. Messi has transformed Inter Miami into a championship contender, leading them to the 2023 Leagues Cup title and the 2024 Supporters' Shield.
Kickoff time and broadcast details are expected to be announced later this week. The winner advances to the conference semifinals.
