The defending MLS champion Columbus Crew face a crucial match against New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on Bally Sports Ohio and ESPN+.

The Crew enter the match struggling, having lost four straight games - their longest losing streak in over two years and the longest for a defending MLS champion since 2014. Their offense has particularly struggled, managing just one shot on goal in their last match against Chicago.

Key Offensive Stats:

• 4 of last 6 goals came from set pieces
• Lucas Zelarayan remains dangerous on free kicks
• Pedro Santos scored 3 goals vs Red Bulls last season
• Gyasi Zardes scored in 2 of 3 wins vs RBNY in 2020

The Red Bulls sit in 11th place with 19 points and are winless in their last 7 matches. They haven't won at home since June 18th and have struggled to hold leads, dropping a league-high 16 points from winning positions this season.

Betting Lines:

• Columbus Crew: +270 ML, +0.5 goals (-150)
• NY Red Bulls: +110 ML, -0.5 goals (-110)
• Draw: +240
• First Goal: Red Bulls -140, Crew +140, No Goals +675

Analysis: Despite their recent struggles, the Crew have won three straight against the Red Bulls. With key playmakers Zardes, Zelarayan and Santos available, Columbus looks poised to get back on track with a crucial road victory.

Historical Context: Columbus has won three consecutive matches against New York for the first time since 2001-02. A win would help them regain playoff positioning with a tough match against Seattle looming on Saturday.

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