For the first time in MLS’s 26-year history, the reigning MLS Cup champions and Supporters’ Shield winners will meet on the field to begin the season. The Columbus Crew is set to host the Philadelphia Union Sunday afternoon in Columbus, pitting the two teams in MLS that won hardware from the regular season and playoffs (excluding MLS is Back Tournament champions Portland Timbers).
Sunday’s game should certainly have excitement with little turnover between both rosters that brought a trophy back to their cities. The Crew kept its entire championship core and brought in plenty of new additions while the Union maintained a chunk of its roster despite losing two stars Brendan Aaronson and Mark McKenzie to Europe.