Columbus Crew Face Club America in Leagues Cup Quarterfinals

The Columbus Crew face Mexican powerhouse Club America in the Leagues Cup 2026 quarterfinals on Wednesday, August 26, at 10:45 p.m. ET at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The winner will advance to the semifinals of the tournament.

While Columbus has struggled in Major League Soccer play with a four-match winless streak, the team remains undefeated in Leagues Cup action after victories over Atlas FC, Pachuca, and Pumas. Conversely, Club America tops the Liga MX Apertura table with 13 points and enters the match on an eight-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

Interim head coach Laurent Courtois spoke about the opportunity facing his squad ahead of the decisive knockout match in California.

"It's such a luxury to play those types of games," said Laurent Courtois, interim head coach of Columbus Crew.

Courtois emphasized that the roster recognizes the magnitude of the upcoming fixture against the Mexican giants.

"Of course, it's going to be tough. Of course, we respect our opponent, but we're so blessed to have those types of environments and showcase ourselves," added Courtois.

Crew captain Sean Zawadzki highlighted that the tournament format offers the squad a clean slate despite recent domestic struggles.

"It's a new opportunity, new game, new opponent from a different league," said Sean Zawadzki, captain of Columbus Crew.

Zawadzki noted that the squad remains focused strictly on the path toward securing the championship trophy.

"Everything that's gone up to this point goes out the door. It's new opportunity in front of you. It's three games to a trophy and it starts now," added Zawadzki.

Reflecting on the history between both clubs, Zawadzki addressed the competitive nature of their recent international encounters.

"It's a dream we've played, actually. I feel like every year [recently] just based off how we've both done and had these opportunities to play each other," said Zawadzki.

He acknowledged the stature of the opponent while expressing enthusiasm for the high-stakes matchup.

"Obviously, it's a historical team, and so it's an exciting matchup. I'm excited to see what's in store," added Zawadzki.

With the fixture taking place on neutral ground in Southern California, Zawadzki expects strong crowd support for the Liga MX side.

"It's probably going to be a stadium that's going against us," said Zawadzki.

He stressed that maintaining team unity will be critical to counteracting the atmosphere in the stadium.

"So stick within ourselves as a group and keep that cohesiveness and go out there and fight for each other," added Zawadzki.

New Designated Player summer signing Brais Mendez, who joined Columbus from LaLiga side Real Sociedad, commented on how recent adversity has affected team chemistry.

"I think it'll bring us closer. However, since I've gotten to play for Columbus Crew, I've seen a very united team," said Brais Mendez, midfielder for Columbus Crew.

Mendez reflected on the strong internal culture that has helped the group navigate recent performance challenges.

"I might even call it a small family, where we have such a good mood every day. We have great spirit. We get along perfectly," added Mendez.

He reiterated that the strong connection across the roster will support their efforts moving forward.

"Also, players, technical staff, and of course, we're a big family. This will bring us closer than ever, so that in tough times we can overcome them together," added Mendez.

The winner of the quarterfinal clash between Columbus Crew and Club America will move on to the Leagues Cup semifinals, joining the remaining contenders in the tournament bracket.