Diego Rossi’s second-half heroics propelled the reigning MLS champion Columbus Crew to a thrilling 3-2 victory over defending champion Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup round of 16 on Tuesday. The Uruguayan forward’s brace overturned a 2-0 deficit, sending the Crew into the quarter-finals against New York City.
Inter Miami, led by the absent Lionel Messi, took an early lead through Matias Rojas and doubled their advantage with Diego Gomez’s goal. However, Christian Ramirez’s strike in the 67th minute ignited the Crew’s comeback. Rossi equalized in the 69th minute and sealed the victory with a decisive goal in the 80th.
In other quarter-final matchups, New York City rallied from a goal down to defeat Tigres 2-1, with Santiago Rodriguez scoring the winning goal. Philadelphia Union overcame Cincinnati 4-2, with Tai Baribo netting a brace. Mazatlan advanced to the quarter-finals after a penalty shootout victory over Cruz Azul.
The quarter-final fixtures are set for Saturday, with the Crew hosting New York City, Philadelphia Union facing Mazatlan, and the winner of Toluca vs. Colorado taking on either Club America or St. Louis. San Jose will travel to Los Angeles FC, with the winner visiting Seattle.
