Columbus Crew SC finished the preseason without a win as they lost to the New England Revolution 1–0 on a Teal Bunbury goal. Crew SC finished 0–1–3 over the four preseason games in Tucson.
Crew SC rolled out a strong lineup. Steve Clark was in goal with a first choice defense of Harrison Afful, Michael Parkhurst, Gaston Sauro, and Waylon Francis in front. Wil Trapp and Tony Tchani paired in midfield. Ethan Finlay, Federico Higuain, and Hector Jimenez formed the attacking midfield behind Kei Kamara.
Justin Meram came in for Afful in the 62nd minute. Ben Swanson replaced Higuain in the 73rd minute.