Two of Columbus Crew SC's leaders were not able to play in the MLS Cup after testing positive for COVID-19, but their teammates got them involved in the celebration.
Midfielders Darlington Nagbe and Pedro Santos were not on the field in the Crew's 3-0 MLS Cup victory over the Seattle Sounders, but they got to celebrate with the cup trophy thanks to some of their teammates.
Crew players Artur, Gyasi Zardes, and Jonathan Mensah delivered the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy as a surprise to Nagbe and Santos.
Nagbe played in 15 matches while making 14 starts this season for the Crew. He had one goal and an assist. His lone goal of the year was named the MLS Goal of the Year.
Santos started 22 matches for the Crew this season and scored six goals while providing eight assists. He scored two goals during the playoffs leading up to the MLS Cup.
Nagbe, Santos, Artur, Zardes and Mensah will all be returning to the Crew next season.
