Columbus Crew claimed a 3-1 victory over Atlas FC in the Leagues Cup group stage, a result that defied the underlying shot metrics and possession battle. Despite controlling 56 per cent of the ball and registering 15 shots, Atlas created only 1.41 expected goals and managed just two shots on target, with their goalkeeper facing five attempts and saving only 40 per cent of them. Columbus, meanwhile, operated from just 44 per cent possession but made their limited opportunities count, converting all five shots on target into a clinical performance. Sean Zawadzki's brace and Brais Mendez's strike proved decisive, while the Crew's goalkeeper faced just two shots on target and conceded 1.0 post-shot expected goals. Atlas's profligacy in front of goal—generating 1.41 xG from 15 shots—proved costly despite their territorial dominance. Columbus's efficiency in the final third proved the difference in a group-stage contest decided by clinical finishing over volume.