The 2025 Leagues Cup is officially underway, and the Columbus Crew are kicking things off with a heavyweight showdown against Toluca FC on Match Day 1. It’s a clash between last year’s reigning champs from MLS and one of the hottest teams in Liga MX’s Apertura season. If you don’t know much about soccer, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
It took me until the #SaveTheCrew movement and the pandemic to fully appreciate our hometown boys. Now, though? I’m all in.
But if you like drama, grit, and high-stakes matchups, this one’s worth paying attention to.
The Leagues Cup is an annual competition that pits teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) against clubs from Liga MX, Mexico’s top soccer league. Last year, the Crew stormed their way to their first Leagues Cup title, and this year they’ll be looking to defend it. That starts with a statement game against a red-hot Toluca squad. Here’s who to keep your eyes on when the whistle blows.
The Matchup in Columbus
The Columbus Crew: Who’s Stepping Up After Cucho?
Yes, losing star striker Cucho Hernandez to Spain’s Real Betis was a gut punch. But the Crew have been anything but lifeless in his absence. Currently sitting 4th in the Eastern Conference and only 5 points off the top spot, this team has found new weapons to stay dangerous. Both have really stepped up and brought the fire that was needed.
- Diego Rossi: Let’s just call him what he is, the new face of the franchise. Rossi is leading the team in goals scored and sits second in assists. He’s got a knack for finding space in tight areas and has been clinical in front of goal.
- Max Arfsten: Arfsten might not have the same name recognition as Rossi, but don’t sleep on him. He’s third in both goals and assists for the Crew and plays with relentless energy. If he and Rossi are clicking, this offense is going to give Toluca headaches.
Toluca FC: Can Their Offense Stay Red Hot?
While the Crew have more than a fair share games under their belt, Toluca is just getting started in their 2025 Apertura campaign… but man, what a start it’s been.
Toluca is 2-0, sitting atop the Liga MX table, and has already racked up 7 goals. Their offense is humming, and if they keep up this pace, they’re going to be a serious threat in the Leagues Cup.
- Marcel Ruiz: Ruiz is arguably Toluca’s best all-around player. He controls the midfield like a maestro, dictating the tempo and creating opportunities out of nothing. If the Crew give him too much space, they’re in trouble.
- Helinho: Fast. Crafty. Lethal in transition. Helinho is off to a hot start and brings flair and explosiveness to Toluca’s attack. The dude already has 3 goals in 2 games. He’s the kind of player who can flip a game with a single moment of brilliance.
Final Thoughts: Fireworks Incoming
The Toluca vs Columbus Crew match is shaping up to be one of the most exciting openers of the Leagues Cup. The Crew want to prove they can win without Cucho and repeat as champs. Toluca wants to show that their league-leading offense is no fluke.
Whichever way it goes, expect goals, grit, and a whole lot of tension. Whether you’re a diehard or just someone who likes watching people kick balls really well, this one’s worth tuning in for.
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