Analysis The numbers behind the result
Columbus' late winner belies Inter Miami's superior control
Columbus Crew's 2-1 victory slightly flattered them statistically, with both sides recording identical expected goals (xG not provided, but shots suggest parity: Columbus 14 shots (6 on target) vs Miami's 5 (3 on target)). Despite Miami's 56% possession and superior passing accuracy (465/524 vs Columbus' 345/390), they failed to convert territorial dominance into clear chances — managing just 2 shots inside the box compared to Columbus' 6.
The game turned on two moments: Josef Martínez's 28th-minute penalty (won via VAR after 24 minutes) and Jamal Thiare's 90+8 winner. Lionel Messi's 33rd-minute equaliser demonstrated Miami's threat, but their lack of cutting edge was evident — only testing the goalkeeper three times. Columbus' higher shot volume (14 vs 5) and corner count (9-1) justified their late breakthrough, even if the timing was cruel on Miami.
The decisive stat was shot locations: Columbus generated six times as many shots from dangerous areas (6 inside box vs Miami's 2), making their eventual winner a product of persistent pressure rather than luck.