Unbearable Crew: Columbus Struggles Continue After Loss to MinnesotaUnbearable Crew: Columbus Struggles Continue After Loss to Minnesota The Columbus Crew’s dismal season hit a new low on Saturday night as they suffered a crushing 2-0 defeat to Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field. The Crew, who have now lost five of their last six matches, were outplayed and outmuscled by a Minnesota team desperate for points. The hosts opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Franco Fragapane slotted home a penalty after a handball by Vito Wormgoor. Despite several chances for the visitors, they failed to find an equalizer and their misery was compounded in the 72nd minute when Robin Lod doubled Minnesota’s lead with a clinical finish. The defeat leaves the Crew languishing in 13th place in the Eastern Conference with just 13 points from 11 matches. Their once-promising season has now spiraled into a nightmare, with manager Caleb Porter’s position under increasing pressure. “It’s unacceptable,” Porter said after the match. “We’re not competing. We’re not playing with any heart or desire. I’m not going to make excuses. We’re a bad team right now.” The Crew’s problems are numerous. They have struggled to score goals, having netted just 12 in their 11 matches. Their defense has also been porous, conceding 19 times. Key players such as Darlington Nagbe and Gyasi Zardes have been underperforming, while new signings like Aidan Morris and Luis Díaz have failed to make an impact. The fans are growing increasingly frustrated, and the atmosphere at Lower.com Field has become toxic. The Crew are in danger of repeating last season’s disaster, when they finished with the worst record in the league. Porter needs to find a way to turn things around quickly. The Crew have a difficult schedule ahead, with upcoming matches against Philadelphia, New England, and Nashville. If they continue to play like this, the Crew’s season will be over before it even gets started.
