As Hany Mukhtar’s shot crossed the goal line deep into stoppage time, discontent deepened among disheartened Black & Gold fans. Accustomed to high standards and an attacking style built on relentless pressure, the Columbus Crew’s form in 2026 has fallen short of expectations.

The Columbus Crew succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to Nashville SC Saturday night, leaving the 2023 MLS Cup champions winless in four, scoreless in two, and 13th in the Eastern Conference.

The Black & Gold played on the front foot in the first half, controlling 59.7% of possession and creating several promising counterattacks, but came up short in the final third. 

In the 18th minute, Taha Habroune looked to have given the Crew the lead. Diego Rossi played a pinpoint through ball to Max Arfsten, who collected the ball in his stride at the edge of the 18-yard box. Arfsten cut onto his left and placed a low, curled shot that ricocheted against the left post. Habroune was in the right spot in the six-yard box to collect the rebound and powered a shot with his right foot from close range. Unfortunately for the Black & Gold, upon VAR review, Arfsten...