Columbus Crew vs CF Montreal - Major League Soccer

A fascinating Major League Soccer chapter awaits on August 19, 2026 when Columbus Crew take on CF Montreal at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. That coronation came from City's £116m summer signing Elliot Anderson - and has been hotly debated in the build-up to the Manchester derby Super Sunday showdown at Old Trafford, which you can watch live on Sky Sports.

Both Columbus Crew and CF Montreal will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Major League Soccer. Columbus Crew are still searching for momentum, LLWLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 24%. The visitors have been enduring a wretched campaign, LLLLD in their last five and a season win rate of just 20% that leaves them deep in trouble. Where Columbus Crew have built their campaign on solidity, CF Montreal have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. During his 22 matches in charge, Oxford actually ranked as high as 14th in the table.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Columbus Crew may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but CF Montreal have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. In possession, Silva has the confidence to play forwards rather than simply recycling possession.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman L. Messi, whose 19 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. One of McInnes' decisions will likely be who starts up front in the absence of captain Lawrence Shankland and fellow striker Youssef Chermiti.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. With positions in the Major League Soccer table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Important qualities given that Bournemouth will expect him to be proactive.