Columbus Crew advanced from their US Open Cup tie against Richmond Kickers with a commanding 3–0 victory, dominating the encounter through superior shot volume and clinical finishing. The Crew unleashed 26 shots, 11 of which found the target, overwhelming Richmond's defence in a 4–4–2 formation that proved devastatingly effective. Hugo Picard led the charge with two goals, while a third Columbus striker added the finishing touch. Richmond, operating in a 4–2–3–1 setup, managed only eight shots with just two on target, unable to trouble Columbus's goalkeeper despite their goalkeeper's perfect 100 per cent save rate—a stat that underscores their defensive struggles rather than resilience. The 11-shot-on-target disparity illustrated the gulf in class between the two sides. Crew's ruthless efficiency sends them deeper into the competition, while Richmond's Open Cup campaign ends in disappointment.