Columbus Crew Defeat Puebla 3-1 in Leagues Cup

The Columbus Crew secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Puebla F.C. in their second Leagues Cup group stage match, bouncing back strongly from an earlier defeat. The Crew scored all three goals in the first half, with Malte Amundsen opening the scoring off a Diego Rossi free kick, followed quickly by Rossi himself converting a breakaway assisted by Taha Habroune, who also provided the assist for Andrés Herrera's third goal. Despite Puebla pulling one back in stoppage time of the first half, Columbus maintained control throughout the second half, with goalkeeper Evan Bush making crucial saves to preserve the lead. The match marked the significant returns of Amundsen and Herrera to the starting lineup after injuries and visa issues, and highlighted the emergence of 19-year-old Habroune as a key playmaker. Head coach Wilfried Nancy praised Habroune's readiness and impact, emphasizing the team’s improved focus and intensity following lessons from their previous loss. With this win, the Crew improved their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds and prepared to host Club Leon in their next Leagues Cup fixture.