Columbus Crew Starting XI against Philadelphia Union in Leagues Cup Semifinal

The Columbus Crew are no strangers to high-stakes games in the past few seasons. However, that does not mean they will be taking Wednesday's outing against the Philadelphia Union any less seriously than normal.

The club is coming off back-to-back impressive wins in Leagues Cup action, having taken down the reigning champions, Inter Miami, 3-2 just days back on Tuesday, August 13. Following that comeback victory that was led by a two-goal performance by forward Diego Rossi, they won in a penalty shootout nailbiter against New York City FC.

The Crew now look to the Philadelphia Union, who are the last team on the road that stands between themselves and an appearance in the Leagues Cup Championship.

Ahead of Wednesday's semifinal bout, Head Coach Wilfried Nancy has released the starting lineup for the Black & Gold, with the usually expected stars highlighting the pitch from the opening whistle.

The Starting XI against the Union:

Goalkeeper: Patrick Shulte- Since participating in the Olympics just a short few weeks ago, Shulte will look to stay strong in between the goalposts for the Crew in just his second start back after being in Paris.

Defender: Steven Moreira- He has locked down the right side of the defense at a respectable rate for the Crew. Tonight, he will need to keep up with the speed of the Union attack.

Defender: Rudy Camacho- Camacho has been a favorite of Wilfried Nancy on the backline, and there was no question he would be spotlighting the defense for the Crew in a cup elimination game.

Defender: Evgen Cheberko- He has been very comfortable on the back line alongside Camacho and Moreira.

Right Winged Back: Mohamed Farsi- Speed kills, and Farsi has shown that over the course of the past two games. His help against Inter Miami was crucial in finding the game winning goal, and will most certainly be a focal point for the Crew's offense tonight.

Midfielder: Sean Zawadski- While still trying to find his footing in the absence of Aidan Morris, Zawadski has found himself much more comfortable in recent outings for the Crew. Tonight, he will need to stay strong alongside Nagbe to keep the Columbus defense stout.

Midfielder: Darlington Nagbe- The veteran captain looks to continue working well alongside Zawadski as the two attempt to hold down a midfield that will be tested against the Union.

Left Winged Back: Max Arfsten- The 23-year-old will have to come out swinging for the Crew on in the speed department. His three goals and two assists on the season have been crucial for Columbus.

Attacking Midfielder: Diego Rossi- Through his last two Leagues Cup games, Rossi has scored four goals to lead the offense for Columbus.

Attacking Midfielder: Christian Ramirez- His veteran presence is going to be crucial for the team as they sit a step away from the bright lights of a cup championship.

Striker: Cucho Hernandez- He has been one of the most prolific strikers in the MLS this season, and his reign of terror looks to continue in front of his home crowd at Lower.com Field

The outing between the Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. EST from Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio. The two sides will compete with the winner securing a birth into the Leagues Cup Championship.