Columbus Crew Seeks More Glory After 2020 MLS Cup Triumph

The History of the Columbus Crew Cup Tournament

The Columbus Crew are one of the original Major League Soccer (MLS) franchises, having joined the league in its inaugural 1996 season. As one of ten charter clubs in MLS, the Crew have a long and storied history that includes many triumphs and trophies.

Arguably the greatest achievement in Columbus Crew history came in 2020 when they lifted the MLS Cup trophy for the second time. The 2020 MLS Cup Final saw the Crew defeat the Seattle Sounders 3-0, thanks to two goals from Argentine midfielder Lucas Zelarayán who was later named MLS Cup MVP.

Lucas Zelarayán's Glory in the Crew's Cup Triumph

Lucas Zelarayán had joined the Crew ahead of the 2020 MLS season and made an immediate impact. He went on to record six goals and four assists during the regular season campaign. However, it was his postseason performances that will live long in the memory of Crew fans.

In the Eastern Conference Final against New England Revolution, Zelarayán scored two long-range wonder goals to fire Columbus to a 2-0 victory. In the MLS Cup Final against Seattle, he once again netted two sublime goals to lead the Crew to cup glory in 2020.

The Crew Pay Tribute to their Cup MVP

Zelarayán's winning goals against Seattle in the final earned him the MLS Cup MVP award. Undoubtedly, he was the driving force behind Columbus' second MLS Cup triumph in 2020.

Therefore, when Zelarayán left the Crew in 2022 to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab, there was much sadness amongst the Columbus fanbase. The club paid tribute to their former midfield maestro by praising his endeavors during his time in black and gold.

The Crew's social media channels released several highlight videos of Zelarayán's best goals and moments in a Crew shirt. These tributes focused heavily on his MLS Cup winning heroics that landed Columbus the cup in 2020.

Can the Crew Win More Silverware?

Despite saying goodbye to Zelarayán ahead of the 2023 MLS season, the Columbus Crew will be hoping they can challenge for more trophies this campaign.

Head coach Caleb Porter has molded an impressive squad centered around US internationals such as Darlington Nagbe and CJ Sapong. Meanwhile, Colombian winger Juan Camilo Hernandez (known as 'Cucho') will aim to have a similar impact to that of Zelarayán.

Building the Next Championship Caliber Roster

Porter and the Crew front office are building towards what they hope will be another championship-caliber roster. The core of Nagbe, Sapong and Hernandez is strong, while offseason acquisitions like midfielder Aidan Morris add both talent and depth.

There is a quiet confidence around the club that they can enjoy a successful 2023 season. While replacing an MVP like Zelarayán is impossible, Columbus will hope their latest crop of stars can help deliver more cup success.

Can Columbus Win Big Again in 2023?

The 2023 MLS season kicks off in late February, with the Crew facing a tough road test against defending Supporters' Shield winners LAFC. This will be an early test of their credentials.

Head coach Caleb Porter has talked up his squad's desire to win trophies again for this soccer-crazed city. With Lucas Zelarayán now just a glorious memory, new heroes must emerge to lift more cups.

Midfield maestro Darlington Nagbe and leading scorer Cucho Hernandez seem poised to drive Columbus back to championship contention. Meanwhile, shrewd offseason moves have built one of MLS' deepest rosters.

As the Crew embark on a new season, hopes are high that the glory days of 2020 can soon make a return. Delivering MLS Cup number three would be the ultimate tribute to departed MVP Zelarayán.