Columbus Crew take the belt

Columbus Crew beat Tampa Bay Mutiny 1–0 at home to start reign 9 of the MLS belt, the 1st for the franchise.

Tampa Bay Mutiny had held it since July 18, 1996, with 1 defense over 7 days.

Columbus Crew held it for 3 days and 0 defenses, then lost it to D.C. United on July 28, 1996.