Cucho Hernandez adds to legacy with Leagues Cup masterclass as Columbus Crew down LAFC once again

The Columbus Crew largely ran the first half, with LAFC spending most of the 45 pinned back in their own box. The hosts created several chances out of that dominance, forcing some heroic LAFC blocks to keep the score level.

Eventually, the Crew got their reward.

The opener came from none other than superstar Cucho Hernandez, who scored just minutes before halftime. Mo Farsi was the creator, with his picture-perfect cross landing right on the head of Hernandez, who smashed a header past a helpless Hugo Lloris.

LAFC's newest superstar wouldn't be denied, though. Making his first start for LAFC, Olivier Giroud headed home from close range in the 57th minute, making it 1-1 with his first goal for the club.

That all just set the stage for Hernandez, who embraced his moment in the spotlight. The Colombian scored in stoppage time to give the Crew a late 2-1 lead. Moments later, he teed up Jacen Russell-Rowe for some insurance, leading the Crew to a 3-1 win and another memorable final win over LAFC.

This season's competition was technically the fourth edition of the Leagues Cup, but only the second in its current format. Last season's tournament was won by Lionel Messi and Inter Miami as the Argentine caught fire in his first matches with the club.

Come on, is there any doubt?

Two goals, one assist and, most importantly, another trophy to his name - Cucho Hernandez is the superstar, arguably the most dominant force in MLS right now. He proved it on Sunday with another humongous performance as he led the charge for the Crew once again.

Going big picture here, let's point to LAFC as a whole. In the last nine months, LAFC have lost an MLS Cup to the Crew, were shellacked 5-1 in MLS play last month and then lost another heartbreaking final in Columbus. For all their talent, LAFC just can't find a way to overcome the Crew and, with the MLS Playoffs looming, there's a chance they'll have to dust themselves off and try again in a few months time. Mentally, will they be able to do it?

Both sides had already booked their spots in the CONCACAF Champions Cup by making it t the Leagues Cups final, and they were joined by the Colorado Rapids, who outlasted the Philadelphia Union in a thrilling penalty kick shootout in the third-place game.

The focus will turn back towards MLS now, with the Crew set to face the Union on Wednesday. LAFC, meanwhile, will still have a U.S. Open Cup semifinal to play as they take on the Seattle Sounders midweek.