Columbus Crew condemned a five-game winless run as young Nigerian forward Ibrahim Aliyu scored his first goal for the club a decisive header during a dramatic 3–2 home league clash with Charlotte FC on 24 May at Lower.com Field.
bet9ja.com
The visitors struck first before Aliyu, introduced in the starting lineup, rose to powerfully head in Mohamed Farsi’s cross in the 15th minute. Despite conceding two goals to Patrick Agyemang and a late strike from Pep Biel, Crew stalwart Malte Amundsen replied before halftime to level the game, ultimately claiming a morale-boosting victory.
bet9ja.com
Aliyu’s breakthrough came just weeks after his move from Houston Dynamo in late April, and provided much-needed spark. Crew coach Nancy praised the youngster’s impact: "his poise in front of goal shows he's ready for this level".
With almost 60,614 fans an all-time attendance record at Lower.com Field witnessing the milestone goal, the stadium roared back into the spotlight. That July‑built venue hosted its most packed night since opening in 2021.
Editorial
We see Aliyu’s breakthrough not just as a personal milestone, but as a harbinger of renewed energy for Columbus. His early strike injected life into a side plagued by lacklustre form, reminding us that young talent can disrupt negative trends overnight.
This result was equally significant for the team’s confidence. Ending a five-match winless run with a come from behind triumph demonstrates resilience and fight. It speaks of a squad that, even in adversity, can respond positively.
The staggering attendance breaking stadium records speaks volumes about fan loyalty. Support of that magnitude amplifies every performance and underscores the necessity of delivering results. With Aliyu’s goal and Malte Amundsen’s equaliser, the squad met the moment.
We also note the strategic value of Aliyu’s signing. The Columbus management’s decision to acquire a young, promising Nigerian forward on a low-risk deal is paying dividends already. It illustrates how integrating youthful energy can rejuvenate the team.
Our belief is clear: when fresh talent meets opportunity and it did impact can be immediate. Aliyu’s goal may have ended a drought, but it’s also ignited renewed belief. And that spark could define the Crew's season.
Did You Know?
Ibrahim Aliyu moved to Columbus Crew in April 2025 from Houston Dynamo in a $450,000 deal, potentially rising to $1.2 million with bonuses.
He scored 6 goals and provided 5 assists in 34 regular-season Dynamo matches in 2024, helping them to a US Open Cup victory.
Standing at 1.84 m, Aliyu previously notched 14 goals during a with Lokomotiva Zagreb in Croatia.
Lower.com Field’s record attendance of 60,614 was the highest non-NFL turnout in its history and the club’s eighth-largest this season.
Columbus Crew ended their winless streak by scoring twice against Charlotte becoming one of the first teams in the 2025 season to net [multiple goals](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/news/interviews/champions-league-spot-a-big-motivation-for-forest-awoniyi/) in consecutive games.