Columbus Crew cruise past D.C. United in 3–0 home victory

Columbus Crew delivered a convincing 3–0 victory over D.C. United at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on Saturday, October 31, turning their greater share of possession into three points and a clean sheet in Major League Soccer.

Sean Zawadzki headed the hosts ahead in the 16th minute, Anass Zaroury doubled their advantage in the 41st, and a Kimito Nono own goal in the 60th completed a difficult afternoon for the visitors.

First-half goals put Columbus in command

Zawadzki supplied the breakthrough with a 16th-minute header, giving the Crew an early platform in this Eastern Conference fixture. Columbus finished with 61.5 percent possession, and that advantage on the ball was matched by a greater volume of attempts.

D.C. United’s task became significantly harder shortly before the interval. Zaroury struck in the 41st minute to make it 2–0, leaving the visitors needing a substantial second-half response. Kye Rowles then received a yellow card in first-half stoppage time as United headed into the break two goals behind.

Nono own goal ends hopes of a comeback

The next goal was always likely to be pivotal, and it went Columbus’ way on the hour. Nono’s 60th-minute own goal extended the lead to 3–0 and left D.C. United with a mountain to climb.

The visitors could not find a route back. They registered four shots on target—the same number as Columbus—but failed to turn those efforts into a goal. The Crew finished with 14 attempts to United’s nine, pairing their attacking output with a valuable shutout.

United also committed 20 fouls to Columbus’ 11, with João Peglow booked in the 64th minute following Rowles’ earlier caution. It added to a frustrating afternoon in which the visitors conceded twice before halftime and again just as they needed to build momentum after the restart.

Next up

Columbus will look to carry this result into their next fixture against Chicago Fire FC on Saturday, November 7. D.C. United face New York City FC on the same day, seeking a response after this three-goal defeat. Both fixtures are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. PST.