While the Crew fights to keep its head above water in the MLS Eastern Conference, Cucho Hernandez continues to thrive in Spain.
The Crew’s former star striker has helped Real Betis rise to fifth in La Liga, including a two-goal effort in a 3-0 victory over Real Oviedo on May 3 in front of 57,578 on the home pitch at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville, Spain.
The second goal, which made it 3-0 in the 58th minute, was a jaw-dropper. Flashing into an inside position in front of the Real Oviedo goal, Hernandez swiftly deflected a pass from the left wing past the stunned goalkeeper.
It was his team-high 10th goal of the season and 14th across all competitions. Hernandez, who left the Crew in February 2025, is signed with Real Betis through 2030.
The Crew, coming off a gutting 3-2 loss to Minnesota United on May 2 in Columbus, are still looking to fill the gaping void his departure created.
Brian Hedger can be reached at bhedger@dispatch.com and @BrianHedger.bsky.social
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Former Columbus Crew star Cucho Hernandez thriving for Real Betis
Reporting by Brian Hedger, Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
