New York Red Bulls claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field on September 13, 2026, thanks to a second-half goal from Lewis Morgan. The visitors defended resolutely and rode their luck at times, but a disciplined tactical performance and a standout goalkeeping display from Carlos Coronel secured all three points against one of the Eastern Conference’s strongest sides.

Match Overview

Columbus controlled large portions of the match, enjoying nearly 65% possession and creating the bulk of the chances. The Crew pushed their fullbacks high and looked to overload the Red Bulls’ defensive third, but they found no way through a compact and organised back line. New York sat deeper after taking the lead, absorbing pressure and looking to hit on the counter. The result leaves Columbus frustrated after a dominant but ultimately unproductive night.

Key Moments

• 18' — Columbus chance: Diego Rossi forced a fine save from Carlos Coronel after cutting inside from the left wing.
• 41' — Red Bulls chance: Dante Vanzeir dragged a shot wide after a quick counter-attack caught Columbus short at the back.
• 67' — Red Bulls goal: Lewis Morgan finished coolly from the edge of the box after Emil Forsberg’s clever through ball split the Columbus defence.
• 74' — Columbus chance: Cucho Hernández headed over from a corner when well placed.
• 89' — Red Bulls save: Coronel reacted brilliantly to tip a deflected shot over the crossbar, preserving the clean sheet.

Tactical Story

The Red Bulls set up in a disciplined 4-4-2 mid-block, inviting Columbus to play through the wide areas while protecting the central corridor. Emil Forsberg and Lewis Morgan combined well in transition, and the winning goal came from exactly that pattern. Columbus, meanwhile, struggled to break down a deep-lying defence. Their crossing was often hurried, and the Red Bulls’ centre-backs dealt comfortably with most aerial deliveries. The Crew’s best moments came from set pieces, but they lacked the final touch.

Standout Players

Lewis Morgan was the match-winner, taking his goal with composure and constantly threatening on the break. Emil Forsberg dictated the visitors’ attacking play and provided the assist. Carlos Coronel was outstanding in goal, making five saves and commanding his area. For Columbus, Diego Rossi was the most inventive player, while Darlington Nagbe kept the midfield ticking. However, Cucho Hernández and the rest of the attacking line were kept quiet by a resilient Red Bulls defence led by Sean Nealis.

Table Impact

The win boosts the Red Bulls’ playoff ambitions and gives them a valuable road victory against a conference heavyweight. Columbus remain near the top of the Eastern Conference but missed a chance to close the gap on the Supporters’ Shield leaders. With the season entering its final stretch, the Crew will need to turn possession into goals more consistently. The Red Bulls, meanwhile, will take confidence from a performance that combined grit, organisation and a moment of real quality.