The Columbus Crew traveled to Los Angeles for a non-MLS match against LAFC Tuesday. It was the first leg of the opening-round two-match series in Concacaf competition. The first series includes 16 teams from North, Central America and Caribbean Football, a governing body for 41 member associations. The Crew failed to muster any offense and fell to LAFC 3-0. The teams play in Columbus next Tuesday.

In order to continue in Concacaf play, the total number of goals in the two matches of the series will be the measuring stick. So, if Columbus beats LAFC  by four goals or more, they move on. If they win 3-0, there will be an overtime and a shootout after that if necessary. If they win 4-1 or other margins of three goals, LAFC moves on because the number of away goals is the first tiebreaker.

On Tuesday, the Crew had only nine shots on the night compared to LAFC’s 17. A turnover led to a one-on-one breakaway goal against Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte in the first half. LAFC added two in the second half to capture a dominating home victory.

Before the return match against LAFC next week, the Crew have an MLS tilt this Saturday against Houston at Lower.com Field beginning 2:30 p.m.