​Before MLS resumes its regular season on July 16, the Columbus Crew will get their first competitive action since the World Cup break in a friendly against England’s Burnley FC. On July 12, the Crew will host Burnley in what will be their second friendly against an English club in two years. Columbus previously faced an English side in July 2024, defeating Premier League club Aston Villa 4-1 in a warm-up match that included midfielder Dylan Chambost scoring in what was his unofficial debut for the Crew.
“We all had a great experience,” Crew defender Malte Amundsen said. “It’s fun for us to compare ourselves to teams that aren’t always MLS opponents. We’re very excited, and obviously it’s their preseason. I’m sure we’ll test a few different things, but I’m looking forward to it so much. It’s always nice to compare yourself against some of the best, better teams in the world.”
In the backdrop of the Leagues Cup, Amundsen’s stoppage-time goal earlier in the competition highlighted Columbus’s potential as they strive to build consistency across competitions. Burnley, meanwhile, arrives in the match after a challenging 2025-26 season, finishing 19th in the Premier League and earning relegation to the EFL Championship.
The Crew continue to adjust under interim head coach Laurent Courtois, who took over after Henrik Rydstrom was dismissed on May 17. Before the World Cup break, Columbus had won their first two games under Courtois but still sat in 10th place in the Eastern Conference with a 4-4-7 record as they prepared for the second half of the season.
Several players who were part of the World Cup rosters may miss the Burnley friendly. Crew midfielder Max Arfsten and defender Steven Moreira—representing the United States and Cape Verde, respectively—are expected to be unavailable for the match. The Crew and their supporters continue to push for roster depth and freshness as they prepare to re-enter MLS play.
The Crew-Burnley friendly is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m. on July 12. Tickets remain on sale through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at $29.25. At this time, there is no streaming option listed for the Crew-Burnley game. Burnley, however, did share a free link to stream its July 10 friendly against FC Cincinnati via the club’s official website. For fans seeking live coverage, options will be announced closer to kickoff.
This report originated from The Columbus Dispatch, detailing Columbus Crew’s preparations for hosting Burnley FC in an English-exposure friendly and outlining ticketing, streaming and roster considerations as the club readies for the return of MLS play.