Major League Soccer Round 3: Columbus Crew 0-1 Nashville SC. The match kicked off at 06:20 local time on March 15, 2026, at Lower.com Field in Columbus. A solitary goal from Nashville's Hany Mukhtar in the 67th minute proved decisive, handing the visitors a hard-fought away victory and ending the Columbus Crew's unbeaten start to the season. The result was significant as it showcased Nashville's defensive resilience on the road against the reigning MLS Cup champions. The first half was a cagey affair with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances, though Columbus enjoyed the majority of possession. The breakthrough came in the second half when Nashville capitalized on a turnover in midfield. A quick transition found Mukhtar in space on the edge of the box, and the league's former MVP curled a precise finish into the bottom corner, leaving the Crew goalkeeper with no chance. Columbus pushed for an equalizer, with Cucho Hernández forcing a good save, but Nashville's organized backline, marshaled by Walker Zimmerman, held firm under late pressure. The key focus point was Nashville's tactical discipline, successfully nullifying Columbus's creative midfield and sealing the win with a moment of individual quality. The three points lifted Nashville into the upper echelons of the Eastern Conference table, while the Crew dropped valuable points at home early in the campaign. Post-match, Columbus head coach Wilfried Nancy expressed frustration at his team's lack of cutting edge, stating, "We controlled the ball but not the game. We must be more clinical." Nashville's Gary Smith praised his team's character, saying, "That's a massive result against a top opponent. The boys executed the plan perfectly." The starting lineups featured a full-strength Columbus side including Patrick Schulte in goal and Darlington Nagbe in midfield, while Nashville lined up with Joe Willis between the posts and Mukhtar leading the attack.