Columbus Crew edge past LAFC to win MLS Cup

The Columbus Crew secured their third MLS title by beating Los Angeles FC 2-1 in the MLS Cup final.

Columbus started the game with high intensity, earning an opportunity to score the opening goal just after the half-hour mark when the ball unintentionally struck Diego Palacios' hand in the penalty box.

The resulting penalty kick was successfully converted by former Watford Cucho Hernández, putting the hosts in front.

Only four minutes later, Malte Amundsen delivered an excellent pass to Yaw Yeboah, who skillfully scored to double the lead.

LAFC displayed a resurgence after half-time, increasing pressure on the hosts in an effort to get back into the game and 15 minutes left to play, their efforts paid off.

Following some goalmouth chaos, Denis Bouanga capitalised to score, reducing Columbus' lead by half.

In what could potentially be the last game before retirement for former Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini and despite the visitors creating a few chances in the latter stages, the Crew held on, claiming their third MLS Cup.

YOUR 2023 MLS CUP CHAMPIONS 🏆 pic.twitter.com/j8xsfMMZiW

— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) December 9, 2023