STARTING XI | A look at our lineup against the New York Red Bulls

LINING UP IN A 4-4-2 TONIGHT

LAST REGULAR-SEASON MEETING

The two sides last faced off in regular-season action on July 16, 2020 at the MLS is Back Tournament. The Crew opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through forward Gyasi Zardes and added a second goal in the 47th minute through midfielder Lucas Zelarayan. In the end, the Black & Gold walked away with a 2-0 victory.

COLUMBUS CREW UNDEFEATED AGAINST NEW YORK RED BULLS SINCE 2017 

Entering Wednesday's match, the Crew currently holds a six-match regular-season unbeaten streak against the Red Bulls dating back to the 2017 season. During that time, the Black & Gold have posted a record of 4-0-2 and have outscored the Red Bulls 13-9. Defender Jonathan Mensah, midfielder Pedro Santos, and forward Gyasi Zardes have each scored twice against New York Red Bulls during the span. 

AIR MENSAH: THE DEFENSIVE WALL 

Defender Jonathan Mensah leads MLS in headed clearances this season, having made 52 in regular-season action this year. In addition to leading the League in headed clearances, Mensah has made 83 total clearances, tying with Andrew Farrell (New England Revolution) for fifth-most clearances in regular-season action in 2021. Mensah has also recorded a League high 21 blocks this season. 

ZELARAYAN AMONG MLS LEADERS IN COMPLETED DRIBBLES 

Through 18 appearances in the 2021 MLS regular season, midfielder Lucas Zelarayan has completed 47 dribbles. Zelarayan's 47 dribbles are tied with Toronto FC's Yeferson Soteldo for fourth-most in the League this year. 

COLUMBUS CREW LEADS LEAGUE IN GOALS SCORED OUTSIDE OF THE 18-YARD BOX 

The Black & Gold currently lead Major League Soccer in goals scored outside of the 18-yard box during the regular-season, having scored six goals from that area. Additionally, midfielder Lucas Zelarayan leads the League with five goals scored from the range.