Columbus Crew Stun Inter Miami with a Dramatic Comeback Victory in Leagues Cup

In a thrilling encounter at the 2024 Leagues Cup, Columbus Crew delivered a stunning comeback to defeat reigning champions Inter Miami 3-2, securing their place in the tournament’s semifinals. The match, held on August 14, saw Wilfried Nancy’s side overcome a 2-0 deficit in a display of resilience and determination that has become the hallmark of Nancy’s tenure as manager.

Inter Miami, missing their star player Lionel Messi due to an ankle injury from the Copa America, appeared to be in control for the first 63 minutes. The Herons took the lead just 10 minutes into the game, with Paraguayan winger Matias Rojas netting his fourth goal of the tournament. Diego Gomez then doubled Miami’s advantage in the 63rd minute, and it seemed like a straightforward victory was on the cards.

However, the Crew had other plans. Just four minutes after Gomez’s goal, Columbus began their comeback. Christian Ramirez headed in a goal in the 67th minute, sparking hope among the Crew fans. Two minutes later, Diego Rossi added another, leveling the score at 2-2 and shifting the momentum firmly in Columbus’ favor. Rossi then capped off the comeback in the 81st minute with a second goal, sealing a sensational victory for his team.

Despite a late attempt to respond with substitutions from Miami’s manager Tata Martino, including the introduction of Ian Fray, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Leo Campana, the changes came too late to alter the outcome. Martino’s management in the second half, particularly his delayed response to Columbus’ resurgence, has been widely criticized as the key factor in Miami’s collapse.

With this victory, Columbus Crew moves on to face New York City FC in the quarterfinals on August 17, while Inter Miami, the defending champions, exit the tournament earlier than expected. The result guarantees that a new champion will be crowned in the 2024 Leagues Cup.

The match will be remembered for Columbus’ incredible resilience and Rossi’s match-winning performance, earning him the title of MVP for his decisive contributions in the second half. For Inter Miami, the loss serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where even a two-goal lead can vanish in moments.