The defending MLS champion Columbus Crew heads to Austin FC for their first-ever meeting on Sunday at 8 p.m. ET at Q2 Stadium. This match carries extra significance given the history between the teams, as former Crew owner Anthony Precourt now owns Austin FC after his failed attempt to relocate the Crew in 2019.

The Crew enter this match following a 1-0 loss to Philadelphia Union, where their offense struggled without playmaker Lucas Zelarayan for the first half. Currently tied for fourth in the East with 14 points, Columbus boasts one of the league's best defenses, allowing just 7 goals in 9 games.

Key Statistics:

• Crew striker Gyasi Zardes has found his form with 3 goals in his last 3 starts
• Columbus has conceded only 7 goals in 9 matches
• Austin FC has scored just one goal in their last 6 games
• Austin opened their new Q2 Stadium with a 0-0 draw against San Jose

Betting Odds:

• Austin FC: +143
• Columbus Crew: +195
• Draw: +220
• Under 2.5 goals: -120
• Over 2.5 goals: -106

The Crew's strong defense and Austin's scoring struggles suggest a low-scoring affair, though Columbus will be motivated to make a statement against their former owner's new team. The Crew's recent offensive improvement with Zardes finding his scoring touch could be the difference in this historic first meeting.

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