The Columbus Crew host Nashville SC in a crucial Eastern Conference matchup at Lower.com Field on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both teams aim to break into the top four spots after weekend victories.

Key Match Context:

• Columbus holds a perfect 2-0-0 record against Nashville historically
• Both previous matches ended in 2-0 Crew victories
• This is part of a three-games-in-seven-days stretch for both teams

Columbus Crew Update:

• Lucas Zelarayan set a club record with his 4th free kick goal this season in their 2-1 win over NYCFC
• Eloy Room returns in goal after Curacao's Gold Cup exit
• Harrison Afful back from suspension
• Missing 4 players to Gold Cup duty: Zardes, Fraser, Molina, and Etienne Jr.
• Only 1 loss in last 8 games but just 1 win in last 5
• Strong home record of 18-1-2 in last 21 matches

Nashville SC Update:

• Coming off 5-1 home win vs Chicago Fire
• Hany Mukhtar scored hat-trick in 6-minute span
• Unbeaten in 15 of last 16 matches
• Currently 5th in Eastern Conference
• Missing defenders Zimmerman and Johnston to Gold Cup
• First road match since June 18 after 5 straight home games
• Season road record: 0-1-2

Betting Lines:

• Columbus ML: +165 (-0.5) (+135)
• Nashville ML: +175 (-0.5) (-145)
• Draw: +235
• Total Goals 2.5: Over -115, Under -105
• First to Score: Crew +100, Nashville -105, No Goals +600

Analysis: Columbus' set-piece threat through Zelarayan and strong home form make them slight favorites, though Nashville's recent form suggests a competitive match.

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