In a rematch of the 2023 MLS Cup presented by Audi, Cucho repeated as the Crew’s MVP. This time around, the Colombia international scored twice – including a winning goal in second-half stoppage time – before Jacen Russell-Rowe sealed the match in the final moments.

But the Crew star was undeterred and opened the scoring with a header of his own just before half-time. And when it looked like the match would go to a penalty shootout, Hernández fired a dipping shot past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in the 92nd minute.

Russell-Rowe ended LAFC’s chances with a deadly counterattack two minutes later to give Columbus its first Leagues Cup title.