Inter Miami Ends Columbus Crew's Streak in Historic MLS Showdown
Inter Miami CF stunned the soccer world on April 19, 2025, overcoming the Columbus Crew 1-0 in a high-stakes matchup that drew record-breaking attendance and reshaped the MLS power rankings. With this win, Miami remains the only unbeaten team in the league, while the defending champions suffered their first loss of the season.
Clash of Eastern Giants
Before kickoff, both teams stood atop the MLS Eastern Conference: Columbus Crew at 5 wins, no losses, and 1 draw, and Inter Miami close behind at 5 wins, no losses, and 3 draws. This game was more than just another league fixture—it was a defining moment for two of the hottest teams in the league.
Miami, galvanized by Lionel Messi's presence and strategic leadership, entered the match with immense expectations. Columbus, the reigning MLS Cup champions, looked to dominate, especially in front of their raucous home crowd—offering the perfect storm of rivalry, stakes, and spectacle.
Game Day: Miami Dethrones Columbus
The lone goal of the match came in the 30th minute, when Benjamin Cremaschi headed in a cross that froze the Columbus defense. The Crew, despite relentless pressure, couldn't break through Miami’s disciplined back line.
With that strike, Miami not only sealed the victory but also dealt Columbus their first defeat of the season. The win elevated Miami to the top of the table and continued their undefeated run, sparking excitement and debate within MLS circles.
A Record-Breaking Crowd in Cleveland
Adding to the drama, the Crew chose to host the game at Huntington Bank Stadium—the home of the Cleveland Browns—just over two hours north of their usual stadium. The result? A jaw-dropping 60,614 fans—a new club attendance record and nearly double their previous high from 1996.
This marked the second consecutive week an MLS team shattered its attendance record while hosting Inter Miami. Just days earlier, the Chicago Fire drew more than 62,000 fans against Messi’s team. While some fans praised the decision to move the game to a larger venue, others questioned if it compromised Columbus's home-field advantage.
Messi’s influence, both on and off the pitch, continues to prove transformative for MLS. Each of his appearances turns into a full-blown event, magnifying Miami’s matches far beyond the stadium walls.
Emotion, Momentum, and Controversy
Fans were left breathless—not just from the match but the larger emotional narrative unfolding before them.
A record crowd. A clash of titans. A single moment that changed the trajectory of the season.
Many Columbus fans voiced frustration at the stadium switch, feeling displaced in their own home match. But for neutral fans and MLS observers, the spectacle was a resounding success. The rise of Inter Miami under Messi continues to elevate MLS into mainstream sports buzz, and the league’s growth feels more tangible than ever.
More Coverage
Read the full match recap on MLSsoccer.com and check out ESPN's live game coverage here.
Conclusion
✔️ Summary point
Inter Miami's 1-0 win against Columbus Crew shattered records and marked a pivotal moment in the 2025 MLS season.
✔️ Reaction or implication
From Messi’s enduring impact to the record-setting attendance, this match firmly established Miami as a title contender and showed how MLS is stepping onto the global stage.
