Columbus Crew travel to BMO Field to face Toronto FC in a crucial MLS Eastern Conference matchup on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Both teams sit at 18 points and could move within two points of a playoff spot with a win.

The match has added significance as these teams compete for the Trillium Cup, named after the official flower of Ohio and Ontario. Columbus can reclaim the trophy for the first time since 2018 with a draw or win, having won the first meeting 2-1 in March.

Team Status

Columbus Crew:

• Unbeaten in last 3 games
• Points in 2 straight road games
• Key injuries: Lucas Zelarayan (thigh), Derrick Etienne (leg), Yaw Yeboah (ankle)
• New signing Cucho Hernandez joins July 9
• Strong midfield with Darlington Nagbe and young academy products

Toronto FC:

• Unbeaten in 6 of last 7 matches
• Strong home form since May 14
• Leading scorer: Jesus Jimenez (7 goals)
• Defense struggling - allowed goals in 24 straight games
• Italian star Lorenzo Insigne arrives July 9

Betting Odds:

• Columbus Crew: +165
• Toronto FC: +145
• Draw: +240
• Total Goals O/U: 2.5 (Over -125, Under +100)
• First Goal: Columbus -105, Toronto -110

Analysis: Expect goals from both sides despite Columbus' injuries. The 2-1 scoreline from March could repeat, with Columbus keen for a strong start ahead of their weekend clash with Philadelphia.

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