For the first time since the 2010-11 season, the Columbus Crew will compete on an international stage this year as part of the CONCACAF Champions League. The Black & Gold earned the right to be a part of this regional tournament last December when the team lifted its second ever MLS Cup trophy thanks to a 3-0 win against the Seattle Sounders.
On Wednesday night, the Crew learned that it will face Nicaraguan side Real Esteli in a two-leg affair in the Round of 16. The first of these legs is scheduled for early April at Estadio Independencia in Esteli with the second leg back in Columbus the week following.