Columbus Crew and Orlando City SC will meet again with a place in the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Columbus vs Orlando City will play in the Southeast on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 7:00 p.m. ET matchup at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, Ohio. Both Eastern Conference teams have wowed on their way to a major final, and are one win away from reaching another.
Race to Another Cup Final
Columbus Crew would qualify for the semifinal as a result of defeating Richmond Kickers, One Knoxville SC and New York City FC. The club made their Open Cup 1st Semi Final debut in 2010. In addition, the Coaches were changed in the middle of the season at Columbus. Plus, there was a change at the helm at Columbus. When he was put in charge on an interim basis, Laurent Courtois led the team to defeat New York City FC.
The winning goal in the aforementioned quarter final to cap off a perfect record of 5-0 came from Max Arfsten. The league has not been a huge success, but Columbus feels good about playing in the cup. In the meantime Orlando City SC had a great run in the Tournament.
The Lions have won two out of their last three matches, making the trip to this round. The Lions have made the trip to this round after beating the New England Revolution, FC Naples and Atlanta United. With Open Cup victory in 2022, Orlando is looking to make another Open Cup Finals appearance. In addition, the club made it to the semi-finals in 2019.
Recent Form and Key Storylines
This season the teams were tied in their MLS match. Orlando began the game with a flurry of goals, starting with the first, scored by Marco Pašalić. But, it was Diego Rossi coming back and leveling the score late, and securing a valuable draw for Columbus.
Both clubs have had good cup runs, and have become confident as a result. Columbus likes to have the ball in his hands and to pass it swiftly. Orlando’s style is the disciplined defending backed by aggressive counter attacks. So, it’s safe to say that there’ll be another matchup between two pretty even-headed East Coast rivals.
Team News Before Kickoff
Diego Rossi continues to be the leading man forward for Columbus Crew. Wessam Abou Ali might also have some major value to play if he can play at 100%. Also, Max Arfsten plays both sides of the ball having scored in the Open Cup just a few days ago.
Orlando City SC will then have to depend on Marco Pašalić, Martín Ojeda and David Brekalo to provide them with creativity and defensive stability. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese provides a great amount of experience in between the goals. Final training sessions will be used to re-establish the Starting XI before the game kicks off, to confirm the team with both coaches.
Tactical Edge
It will be up to midfield control in this semi. Columbus enjoys constructing attacks based on possession and movement, and also he likes to use short combinations. Meanwhile, Orlando is seeking fast passes following winning the ball. Thus both the defence and the attack need to be disciplined and minimise error.
Set-pieces are also likely to have a determining influence. Knockout matchups can be won by accuracy and/or good defending. It might be a game that will have the team that wraps up its business better rewarded with the Columbus vs Orlando City showdown.
Conclusion
This is a semi between two title aspiring clubs with realistic title promising prospects. Both sides possess quality players, a good leadership and a defined and well thought of plan. The one who wins will get one step nearer to the other big trophy. Last, but not least, as a supporter, you will expect an entertainer, intense and quality football and memorable moments.
FAQs
What is the location of the U.S. Open Cup 2026 Semi Final?
The contest will be held at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, OH. The kickoff will be Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. ET.
What players will be able to make the difference in the semi final?
Diego Rossi, Wessam Abou Ali, Marco Pašalić and Martín Ojeda are of a high enough standard to be game changers. They can turn the game on its head with their creativity, movement and finishing at any turn of the game.
