3 things we learned from NYCFC's epic win against the Columbus Crew

On Wednesday, New York City FC welcomed the Columbus Crew to the Big Apple, over one month after they were supposed to play.  Poor field conditions at Citi Field postponed the match, so the two faced off at Yankee Stadium in what felt like a playoff game.  And in the end, in a wild manner, the Boys in Blue beat the Crew 3-2.

This was the first win over the Ohio side since 2022.  From their last win, the teams split the points in three Major League Soccer games and lost the other three.  So, ending the night with three points must feel incredible for the players.  In addition, NYCFC jumped over Columbus in the Eastern Conference standings, leaving the Pigeons in fifth place for at least the next few days.

It was not an easy game either.  The Bronx side had to fight for all three points and was down a goal twice.  Hannes Wolf scored a brace to bring the match level both times, including his incredible bouncer when he kicked the ball into the ground and watched it go into the goal.  That tied the fixture, but it was Julián Fernández's fantastic goal in the final minute that led to the 3-2 win.

There is a lot that can be discussed.  Here are three things we learned from the game between NYCFC and the Columbus Crew.

Julián Fernández and Agustín Ojeda were heroes

Fernández and Agustín Ojeda came on as substitutes in the 67th minute.  The two of them changed the game, especially Ojeda.  He assisted Wolf on the tying goal, and it was his run and pass that led Fernández to score the game-winner.

Ojeda made his way on the right side, running towards the box.  With a few players in front of him, he sent the ball towards Fernández.  The fellow winger followed the through-ball, and with one touch, curled it into the top left corner of the goal.  It was a golazo on an angle, and an epic goal.

Fernández might have scored the winner, but Ojeda’s assists led the match to be 2-2 and 3-2.  The Argentine players deserve all of the applause in the world for what they did to ensure that NYCFC did not drop points at home.

Hannes Wolf scored twice for NYCFC

As good as Wolf has been this season, he has been a little quiet goal-wise throughout the summer.  He last scored on July 3 against Toronto FC.  Well, that was the case until Wednesday.

Hence, scoring not once, but twice, should really boost his confidence.  They were great goals, too.  Plus, as mentioned, the NYCFC winger’s goals brought the game level both times.  His performance ensured that the Pigeons remained in the game and had the opportunity to win.  Wolf clearly deserves his flowers just like his fellow wingers.

NYCFC needs to continue their recent form

Giving up two goals was not ideal.  If NYCFC lost 2-1, then fans obviously would be complaining about the match.  But they did not, and instead, the joy of a comeback win and witnessing an epic game is what everyone can talk about.

It is also vital that NYCFC continues to build from these last few games, not including the loss to D.C. United.  If they continue to do so, then they can be a major threat in the MLS Cup Playoffs.  They need to win games they dominate in and the crazy ones like they did against Columbus.

Continuing their recent form can turn NYCFC into a playoff contender.  So, MLS should watch out for the Pigeons.