NYCFC Ends 60-Day Layoff in Style as Ojeda and Fernández Mercau Inspire Huge Road Victory Over Columbus Crew

After a two-month break from Major League Soccer competition, New York City FC returned with a statement performance, defeating the Columbus Crew 2-1 on the road in a match that showcased composure, defensive resilience, and attacking quality.

Despite concerns about rust following a 60-day layoff, Pascal Jansen's side looked organized from the opening whistle and gradually imposed its style against one of the Eastern Conference's toughest opponents. The victory not only marked a successful return to league play but also highlighted the growing depth of a squad eager to climb the MLS standings during the second half of the season.

The evening also featured several notable storylines, including James Sands' first start since returning from his loan spell in Germany and the long-awaited debut of summer signing Benie Traore following his arrival from FC Basel.

Fernández Mercau sets the tone as NYCFC controls the contest

The opening stages were defined by tactical discipline rather than attacking fireworks, with both teams focusing on controlling possession and limiting space in midfield.

New York City eventually found the breakthrough thanks to Agustín Ojeda, whose aggressive run into the penalty area forced Columbus into a costly foul. Nicolás Fernández Mercau stepped up confidently from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Patrick Schulte the wrong way with a perfectly placed finish to hand the visitors a deserved first-half advantage.

Although Columbus attempted to respond before halftime through Taha Habroune and Jamal Thiaré, NYCFC's defensive organization remained compact, preventing the hosts from finding an equalizer.

Following the interval, Columbus increased the intensity, forcing Matt Freese into an important save early in the second half. Rather than retreating under pressure, however, New York City responded by taking greater control of possession and creating several dangerous opportunities.

Fernández Mercau came within inches of scoring a spectacular second goal when his curling free kick crashed against the crossbar with Schulte completely beaten. Moments later, Andrés Perea also tested the Columbus goalkeeper with a powerful header after an excellent attacking sequence involving Ojeda and Tayvon Gray.

The sustained pressure eventually produced the breakthrough NYCFC deserved.

Ojeda shines while Freese delivers when it matters most

Pascal Jansen's substitutions once again proved influential.

Shortly after entering the match, Talles Magno demonstrated outstanding determination by winning possession deep inside the Columbus defensive third. Instead of forcing an individual finish, the Brazilian showed excellent awareness by squaring the ball to Agustín Ojeda, who calmly guided his finish into the bottom corner to double New York City's advantage.

The goal perfectly reflected NYCFC's collective approach throughout the evening—high pressing, intelligent movement, and unselfish decision-making in the final third.

Defensively, Matt Freese continued his outstanding season with another composed display between the posts. The goalkeeper handled several dangerous situations confidently, including a crucial save to deny Nariman Akhundzada as Columbus desperately searched for a way back into the contest.

The home side eventually reduced the deficit deep into stoppage time after Daniel Gazdag converted a penalty following a handball decision against Thiago Martins. That late goal briefly increased the tension, but Columbus failed to capitalize on one final opportunity as Habroune dragged his effort wide of the target.

For NYCFC, the victory represented far more than just three points.

James Sands enjoyed an encouraging return to the starting lineup after his spell in Germany, while Benie Traore offered promising flashes during his first appearance for the club. Both players are expected to play increasingly important roles as the season progresses.

Perhaps most encouraging for Jansen was the overall balance shown by his team. The Pigeons defended with discipline, controlled possession for long stretches, created quality chances, and responded confidently whenever Columbus threatened to shift the momentum.

Ending a 60-day competitive break with a road victory over one of the league's strongest teams sends a powerful message to the rest of MLS. If New York City FC can maintain this level of intensity and organization, they will have every opportunity to emerge as a genuine contender in the Eastern Conference during the remainder of the 2026 campaign.