Diego Rossi, Zelarayan Among Columbus Crew Players Who Could Miss First Game of MLS Cup Playoffs

Key Columbus Crew players could miss first game of MLS Cup playoffs

The Columbus Crew will be without several key players when they open the MLS Cup playoffs next week. Forward Diego Rossi and playmaker Lucas Zelarayan are both doubtful for the first leg of the Eastern Conference semifinals against FC Cincinnati on Sunday, coach Caleb Porter said Thursday.

Rossi has been dealing with a hamstring injury, while Zelarayan has a knee issue. Both players missed the Crew's final two regular-season games.

Porter said Rossi is "touch and go" for the first leg, while Zelarayan is "less likely" to play. If neither player is able to go, it would be a major blow to the Crew's hopes of advancing to the Eastern Conference final.

Rossi is the Crew's leading scorer this season with 15 goals, while Zelarayan is one of the team's most creative players. His 10 assists are tied for the most on the team.

In addition to Rossi and Zelarayan, the Crew could also be without midfielder Artur, who is dealing with a quadriceps injury. Artur missed the Crew's last four games.

Despite the injuries, Porter said he is confident in his team's ability to compete in the playoffs.

"We have a lot of depth on this team," Porter said. "We've shown all season that we can win without our best players. We're not going to make any excuses. We're going to go out there and compete."

The Crew will host FC Cincinnati in the first leg of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Sunday at Lower.com Field. The second leg will be played in Cincinnati on Nov. 6.