The Columbus Crew have booked their spot in the 2026 US Open Cup final, defeating Orlando City, 2-1, in the semifinals at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on Wednesday night.
The Crew, seeking their first Open Cup title since 2002, will host the Oct. 21 final against the Colorado Rapids or St. Louis CITY SC, who meet later Wednesday evening in another all-MLS semifinal.
Brais Méndez, acquired this summer as a Designated Player from LaLiga’s Real Sociedad, scored the clinching goal, latching onto a lobbed service into the box by fellow summer arrival Santiago Rodríguez and finishing first-time from 10 yards out in the 52nd minute.
Rodríguez also set up the Crew's opening goal in the ninth minute, finding MLS legend Josef Martínez at the back post following a Columbus corner.
Martín Ojeda leveled just before halftime for Orlando, firing in a low shot from the edge of the 18-yard box for his 12th goal of the season in all competitions. Justin Ellis assisted on the goal, his fifth straight match with a helper.
But it was Méndez who provided the decisive moment with his fifth goal in all competitions since his July arrival to send Columbus into their first US Open Cup final since 2010.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: It's been a struggle during the MLS regular season, but Columbus have found some magic in the US Open Cup and are now 90 minutes (or more) from lifting a trophy this season. The tournament champion earns a 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup spot, prize money and silverware.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: The goal that sent the Crew through to hosting the final? It fittingly came from Brais Méndez, the crown jewel of Columbus' summer transfer window haul.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: The other big summer signing? Santi Rodríguez, who assisted both Crew goals as part of a sensational performance.
Next Up
- CLB: Saturday, Sept. 19 at CF Montréal | 7:30 pm ET (Apple TV) | MLS regular season
- ORL: Saturday, Sept. 19 at New England Revolution | 7:30 pm ET (Apple TV) | MLS regular season
