Columbus crew is doomed without Cucho? Think again after this shocker | OneFootball

Columbus Crew began the season with a bang as they defeated Chicago Fire. At home in Lower.com Field, the team won 4-2 in a game that was filled with drama and twists. For a team that lost its star player recently, this was a statement.

Diego Rossi stood out with a double, showing he's ready to set the pace. At the other end, Brian Gutiérrez held his own, finding the back of the net twice for Fire. In the end, Columbus' attacking firepower made more noise, taking the three points.

Cucho Hernández's departure left question marks regarding who would be the attacking reference of the team. Diego Rossi didn't take long to dispel any doubt in the opening match. Two goals, direct involvement in attacking moves, and smart movement did away with concerns in a hurry. If doubts were there regarding Columbus' attack, they're already fading away.

Rossi was straightforward after the game: "It doesn't matter who is on the team. I'll work for the team and for myself. I always work like this, regardless of what team or which players are around me. We're always trying to be better." His words are consistent with his actions on the field. He didn't just show up at crucial moments, he moved well, created space, and made the most of his chances.

Alongside Jacen Russell-Rowe, who also found the back of the net, Rossi showed that he can be so much more than a sub. The season has only just begun, but the first impression was a good one.

Chicago Fire started strong but couldn't keep up

Early on, Chicago Fire showed that they were not there just to defend. Brian Gutiérrez and Jonathan Bamba got space and had decent plays, especially on the left flank. The goal came exactly from that duo, with Bamba setting up Gutiérrez for a well-hit shot.

Even after conceding the equalizer, Fire kept pushing forward and regained the lead with another goal from Gutiérrez. But then things started to shift. The team lost intensity, left gaps in defense, and saw Columbus take control of the game. Rossi’s goal in first-half stoppage time was a tough blow to absorb.

Fire tried to rebuild in the second half but conceded a fourth goal within minutes. Columbus controlled the tempo from that point. Some late chances materialized, but not enough to change the outcome.

Columbus stays true to its style

Wilfried Nancy’s team hasn’t changed the way they play. Even with roster adjustments, the approach remains the same, high intensity, pressing, and attacking football. The defense still needs adjustments, but the offensive system proved it’s still working.

Jacen Russell-Rowe explained it well: "We’re a different team, but we’re the same team at the same time. We’ll always play our style and be very competitive." That was clear on the field.

The pressure high forced Chicago Fire into mistakes. The attacking unit worked the flanks well and created decent chances, mostly through Moreira and Farsi. Columbus stayed organized even when down and was able to find ways to counter.

Patrick Schulte and the need to stay solid

While the attack got through, there is still some work to be done at the back. Patrick Schulte struggled in the first half but recovered well, making key saves to get the win.

The goalkeeper acknowledged the team will have to collectively sustain this level: "We know the quality we have on this team, and we know we'll have to score by committee and put in performances like this, where it's a collective effort. We can't rely on just one person."