Columbus Crew dismissed coach Henrik Rydström days after a disappointing 1-1 draw with Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park. The match, one of the most technically poor performances in MLS 2026, saw Hugo Picard score a brilliant opener for the Crew before Milan Iloski equalized for the Union in the second half.
How the Match Unfolded
The game started slowly but exploded into life before the 10-minute mark. André Gomes delivered a seemingly harmless free kick that Union's defense cleared poorly, leaving the ball for Hugo Picard. The French defender, playing out of position on the left wing, unleashed an incredible strike from outside the area that nestled in the corner, giving Andre Blake no chance.
Columbus Crew had late chances through Max Arfsten's individual brilliance on the right wing, finding Andrés Herrera completely unmarked in the box, but the defender wasted the clear opportunity. The match ended with Sullivan taking a low free kick that Schulte comfortably saved.
Key Statistics and Performances
Columbus Crew dominated possession 62% to 38% but managed just five shots to the Union's 12. The expected goals told the story: Union created 1.09 xG compared to Crew's 0.41 xG, highlighting their superior attacking threat despite having less possession.
Both coaches Bradley Carnell and Henrik Rydström drew criticism for the passive, low-intensity approach that made the match feel like a friendly rather than a competitive fixture.
Find the joy. Jump in head first 😤 pic.twitter.com/WL1K23B99D
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) May 19, 2026
What This Means
Columbus has elected to promote assistant Laurent Cortouis, who has experience from this tenure as head coach in Montreal following the head coach's dismissal. The club once again looks to the Canadian team for a head-coaching answer. Wilfried Nancy, the former coach who won several titles with the Crew, also had worked in Montreal before coming to Ohio.
Philadelphia, for the time being, continues with Bradley Carnell in the realm, but many wonder if he will remain the coach until after the World Cup break.
