CF Montreal vs Columbus Crew
Your time to shine.
Fancy your chances? Challenge a mate on this game.
Challenge a friendCF Montreal and Columbus Crew are set for an exciting regular season clash that promises goals and drama. Both teams have shown attacking intent this season, setting the stage for a competitive encounter.
The context
This fixture is part of the 2026 regular season, round 26. Historically, these teams have met 20 times, averaging over three goals per match, which bodes well for an entertaining game. CF Montreal have won 5 of those meetings, Columbus 9, with 6 draws, indicating a competitive rivalry.
Match factors
Impact of Owusu's Doubtful Status
Prince-Osei Owusu is Montreal's top scorer and assister but is doubtful due to a groin injury, capping his scoring and assist probability.
Montreal's Home Scoring Edge
Montreal scores more at home (1.33 goals/game) and has key attackers in form, giving them a tactical edge in attack.
Columbus' Away Scoring Consistency
Columbus has scored in all last 5 away games, showing strong offensive consistency on the road.
Ríos' Recent Scoring Form
Daniel Ríos has scored 2 goals in last 5 games, including 2 at home, indicating good recent form.
Longstaff Suspension Weakens Montreal Midfield
Matthew Longstaff is out due to yellow card suspension, reducing Montreal's midfield creativity and assist potential.
Analysis
The prediction leans towards a home win for CF Montreal, supported by their strong home scoring record of 1.33 goals per game. Despite the doubt over Prince-Osei Owusu's fitness due to a groin injury, Montreal's attacking options remain potent, with Daniel Ríos showing good recent form at home. Columbus Crew have been consistent on the road, scoring in their last five away games, led by Wessam Abou Ali and Diego Rossi Marachlian. The expected halftime score of 1-1 suggests a balanced first half before Montreal pull ahead in the second.
Key insights

Prince-Osei Owusu
CF Montreal
Top scorer and assist leader for Montreal but doubtful due to groin injury, which caps his impact potential.
Major League Soccer 26/2711 goals and 6 assists in 20 games

Daniel Ríos
CF Montreal
In good recent home scoring form with 2 goals in last 5 games, providing a reliable attacking outlet.
Major League Soccer 26/273 goals in 22 games, 0.14 avg per game
- M
Matthew Longstaff
CF Montreal
Suspended due to yellow cards, reducing midfield creativity and assist potential for Montreal.
Major League Soccer 26/273 assists in 22 games

Wessam Abou Ali
Columbus Crew
Key attacking threat with a high goal rate but has not scored in last 5 games, showing some dip in form.
Major League Soccer 26/275 goals in 7 games, 0.71 avg per game
Prediction
We foresee a 3-2 victory for CF Montreal, with an exciting and closely fought match. The halftime scoreline is likely to be 1-1, reflecting early exchanges of goals. Montreal's home advantage and attacking depth should see them edge out Columbus in a thrilling finish.
Key facts
- 1.CF Montreal and Columbus Crew have met 20 times, averaging 3.2 goals per match.
- 2.CF Montreal have scored 29 goals in these meetings; Columbus Crew have 35.
- 3.Montreal scores 1.33 goals per game at home this season.
- 4.Columbus Crew have scored in all their last 5 away games.
- 5.Prince-Osei Owusu is Montreal's top scorer with 11 goals this season but is doubtful due to a groin injury.
- 6.Daniel Ríos has scored 2 goals in his last 5 home games, showing good form.
- 7.Matthew Longstaff is suspended, reducing Montreal's midfield creativity.
The verdict
In summary, expect a high-scoring game with both teams showing attacking flair. Montreal's home form and key players stepping up should secure them the three points, but Columbus will not make it easy. A 3-2 scoreline fits the bill for this entertaining encounter.
Player Insights
Standout players Fipster expects to impact the match — curated highlights, not full squad lists
Home — CF Montreal


Away — Columbus Crew


Team Comparison
Season shape — attack, defence, form, clean sheets & win rate
Home vs Away comparison
Goal difference in each of the last few fixtures — above the line is a net win, below is a net loss
Season comparison
Goals scored & conceded, goal difference and clean sheets across the season
Halftime Performance
What each side does once the whistle goes for half time
Streaks
Recent-form runs — each side’s most-recent game meets in the middle


