Aliyu’s Header Breaks Crew Winless Run in Record Stadium Match
Columbus Crew condemned a five-game winless run as young Nigerian forward Ibrahim Aliyu scored his first goal for the club a decisive header during a dramatic 3–2 home league clash with Charlotte FC on 24 May at Lower.com Field.
The visitors struck first before Aliyu, introduced in the starting lineup, rose to powerfully head in Mohamed Farsi’s cross in the 15th minute. Despite conceding two goals to Patrick Agyemang and a late strike from Pep Biel, Crew stalwart Malte Amundsen replied before halftime to level the game, ultimately claiming a morale-boosting victory.
Aliyu’s breakthrough came just weeks after his move from Houston Dynamo in late April, and provided much-needed spark. Crew coach Nancy praised the youngster’s impact: "his poise in front of goal shows he's ready for this level".
With almost 60,614 fans an all-time attendance record at Lower.com Field witnessing the milestone goal, the stadium roared back into the spotlight. That July‑built venue hosted its most packed night since opening in 2021.
Editorial
We see Aliyu’s breakthrough not just as a personal milestone, but as a harbinger of renewed energy for Columbus. His early strike injected life into a side plagued by lacklustre form, reminding us that young talent can disrupt negative trends overnight.
This result was equally significant for the team’s confidence. Ending a five-match winless run with a come from behind triumph demonstrates resilience and fight. It speaks of a squad that, even in adversity, can respond positively.
The staggering attendance breaking stadium records speaks volumes about fan loyalty. Support of that magnitude amplifies every performance and underscores the necessity of delivering results. With Aliyu’s goal and Malte Amundsen’s equaliser, the squad met the moment.
Columbus Crew condemned a five-game winless run as young Nigerian forward Ibrahim Aliyu scored his first goal for the club a decisive header during a dramatic 3–2 home league clash with Charlotte FC on 24 May at Lower.com Field.
The visitors struck first before Aliyu, introduced in the starting lineup, rose to powerfully head in Mohamed Farsi’s cross in the 15th minute. Despite conceding two goals to Patrick Agyemang and a late strike from Pep Biel, Crew stalwart Malte Amundsen replied before halftime to level the game, ultimately claiming a morale-boosting victory.
Aliyu’s breakthrough came just weeks after his move from Houston Dynamo in late April, and provided much-needed spark. Crew coach Nancy praised the youngster’s impact: "his poise in front of goal shows he's ready for this level".
With almost 60,614 fans an all-time attendance record at Lower.com Field witnessing the milestone goal, the stadium roared back into the spotlight. That July‑built venue hosted its most packed night since opening in 2021.
Editorial
We see Aliyu’s breakthrough not just as a personal milestone, but as a harbinger of renewed energy for Columbus. His early strike injected life into a side plagued by lacklustre form, reminding us that young talent can disrupt negative trends overnight.
This result was equally significant for the team’s confidence. Ending a five-match winless run with a come from behind triumph demonstrates resilience and fight. It speaks of a squad that, even in adversity, can respond positively.
The staggering attendance breaking stadium records speaks volumes about fan loyalty. Support of that magnitude amplifies every performance and underscores the necessity of delivering results. With Aliyu’s goal and Malte Amundsen’s equaliser, the squad met the moment.