The 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicked off Wednesday night for Columbus Crew 2, as they made their inaugural appearance in the prestigious tournament for the first time as they hosted New York Renegades FC. Led by former Columbus Crew captain Federico Higuain, the Capybaras – which the team was dubbed in 2023 – helped Higuain advance to the next round of the U.S. Open Cup for the first time in his career, defeating the Renegades 4-1.
Columbus dominated the possession battle, holding 75% to the Renegades 25% while having 14 shot attempts (12 on target).
Crew 2 got the scoring started late in the first half with Keesean Ferdinand getting on the end of a ball inside of the penalty area, heading it into the back of the net. Brent Adu-Gyamfi then doubled the Crew’s lead late in first half stoppage time with his left-footed shot just before the half.
The second half mirrored the first, with Columbus on the front foot, forcing the Renegades to tire again.
Tristan Brown got his first of the night in the 62nd minute before Adu-Gyamfi secured his brace in the 69th minute.
Jonathan Silveira scored the lone goal for the Renegades in the 80th minute with a left-footed shot from outside of the 18-yard box and into the net at the far post, but it couldn’t propel the Renegades to pull another back before the final whistle.
Not only was this win the first for the Capybaras in the Open Cup, but it was also the first time that head coach Federico Higuain advanced in the tournament in his career.
Columbus Crew 2 is back in action Sunday March 23, as they travel to take on Inter Miami CF II.