Columbus Crew

vs

Nashville SC

Predictions & Betting Tips

Crew can edge out Nashville in crucial top-half showdown

The Columbus Crew and Nashville SC clash in USA MLS 2025 on Thursday could be a classic case of ‘which one will win?’ as two teams on 27 points after 15 games sit 7th and 5th in the standings. These two sides are very evenly matched, and this Columbus Crew vs Nashville SC prediction sees the Crew look worthy favorites at 1.77 to take the win ahead of Nashville at 4.75. But there are a couple of reasons why backing the hosts might not be the best way to play this game, which will be hotly contested because of the stakes. For one thing, Nashville SC are on a great run of form that has seen them avoid defeat in their last five MLS games, winning four and drawing one.

Crew’s attacking output good enough to overcome Nashville

And, for another, Wilfried Nancy’s Crew have been in inconsistent form in their past five MLS fixtures, winning one, drawing three and losing one. The hosts’ home form is more consistent, however, with the Crew claiming one win and one draw in their previous two. Our Columbus Crew vs Nashville SC prediction should also consider that Nancy has implemented a dynamic and possession-based style of play since taking over in December 2022, although his tactical flexibility – switching between a back three and back four – has kept opponents guessing and kept his team in big games. Aidan Morris gives them a ball-winner and an energy source in midfield, Cucho Hernández provides the pace and creativity to unlock defenses and Diego Rossi is the danger-man up top with seven goals in 14 MLS appearances this campaign.

Nashville will sit deep and try to catch Crew on the counter

Nashville, under the guidance of BJ Callaghan since he took over in July 2024, will sit even deeper than normal and look to catch the home team on the break. The visitors will frustrate the Columbus players with their compact defending and quick, organised counter-attacks, while Hany Mukhtar provides the creative spark and Shaq Moore adds defensive solidity and an attacking thrust from right-back. The Columbus Crew vs Nashville SC preview shows that Nashville have had back-to-back away wins in their most recent two – including the 2-1 victory over Toronto FC last time out – but have failed to win on their last two visits to Columbus. Sam Surridge is their main goal threat with eight in 15 appearances. So, the Columbus Crew vs Nashville SC betting tips suggest backing ‘Columbus Crew or Draw (1X)’ at 1.18 looks the safer bet as the home side are more consistent, Nashville are coming off a five-game unbeaten streak and the head-to-head record heavily favours the Ohio team. Another Columbus Crew vs Nashville SC prediction is for a low-scoring draw if the visitors can contain the hosts’ attack.