Columbus Crew blanked as Salomon Rondon's brace leads Pachuca to CONCACAF Champions Cup title

In a skillful showing of clinical finishing, midfield dominance and tournament prowess, Pachuca claimed their sixth CONCACAF title in the past 25 years Saturday evening.

A 3-0 victory over the Columbus Crew, the Liga MX side dominated the match from the opening whistle until the final seconds of the match.

Salomon Rondon opened and closed the scoring of the match, with a dominant performance from the striker position. The Venezuela international found the back of the net in the 12th and 32nd minutes of the match, with Miguel Rodriguez netting in between the goals.

The Crew were overwhelmed from the opening whistle, never finding their footing, and coming up just short in their attempt at earning their first-ever Champions Cup. The MLS side were outclassed on every level, on and off the pitch - with Wilfried Nancy being out-coached, as well.

Pachuca are the most winningest club in North American history over the past 25 years. Seven league titles and five - now six - CONCACAF titles at the club level.

Salomon Rondon:

The former Premier League striker was lights-out for Pachuca on the night, netting a truly sensational brace. His movement was top-notch when it came to being an attacking threat in and out of the box.
He was clinical when called upon, and stressed out the three central defenders all night. Every time the ball touched his foot, he was a threat. A true big-game performance from a well seasoned veteran.

Wilfried Nancy:

The Crew boss didn't opt to make a substitution until they were down 3-0, and it felt too late. The Crew's attack was lifeless coming out of the halftime break, and it felt as though it never found structure.

Columbus lacked composure defensively, and it felt as though they were overwhelmed from the opening whistle. The stage was too bright for one of MLS' up-and-coming stars on the touchline Saturday evening.

The Crew return to MLS action next week, with a match on the cards against NYCFC on Friday, June 14. Pachuca, meanwhile, are not back until late July when the 2024 Leagues Cup returns.