Columbus Crew Triumphs 2-0 Over Atlanta United in Coach Courtois’ Debut

Diego Rossi scored and provided an assist while Mohamed Farsi recorded two assists for the host Columbus Crew in a 2-0 victory over Atlanta United, marking a successful debut for coach Laurent Courtois on Sunday.

Seko Bangoura netted a goal in the 24th minute, followed by Rossi’s strike in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. This win allowed the Crew (4-7-4, 16 points) to break an 0-3-1 slump amidst steady rain.

Atlanta (3-9-2, 11 points) has faced two losses and a tie in its past three matches.

Courtois previously served as an assistant coach for the Crew before taking the reins following Henrik Rydstrom’s dismissal on May 17, less than six months into his tenure. Courtois was also an assistant under former coach Wilfried Nancy before a brief stint as head coach for CF Montreal in 2024 and early 2025.

Also in the spotlight was Crew midfielder Max Arfsten, who is expected to be named to the U.S. World Cup roster when it is announced on Tuesday. He, along with teammate and Cape Verde World Cup defender Steven Moreira, played for 69 minutes.

Patrick Schulte, a U.S. hopeful likely not to make the roster as the third goalkeeper, recorded two saves for his third shutout of the season.

Atlanta forward Miguel Almiron made his return in the 60th minute after being sidelined since April 11 due to a knee injury. He will join Paraguay for its opening World Cup match against the U.S. on June 12 in Inglewood, California.

The Crew demonstrated a possession-oriented attack under Courtois, showing dominance in the first half with 66% of the ball and eight of the 10 shot attempts.

Rossi nearly scored in the 17th minute, hitting the left post after receiving a pass from Arfsten. Bangoura’s first MLS goal, coming in his 13th match, resulted from a 4-on-1 opportunity following an Atlanta set piece.

Rossi assisted Farsi, who slid the ball into the middle of the box for a tap-in. The second goal came quickly when Moreira’s 60-yard pass to Farsi set up a precise cross to Rossi, who one-timed it for his team-high sixth goal.

Although Atlanta played better in the second half, it finished with a 14-11 advantage in total shots.