Where to Watch Columbus Crew vs Charlotte FC: MLS Commentary Team Revealed

Football fans in the UK looking to catch the Columbus Crew vs Charlotte FC MLS clash on May 3, 2025 (00:30 UK time) will need to tune into MLS Season Pass, as the match will not be broadcast on traditional British channels like Sky Sports, TNT Sports, ITV, or BBC. The game will instead be available via Apple TV's dedicated MLS streaming service, which has exclusive rights to all Major League Soccer matches this season.

Leading the commentary for this fixture will be Tony Husband, a seasoned voice in North American soccer coverage. Husband has built a strong reputation covering MLS, having previously worked for networks like ESPN and Fox Sports. His co-commentator for this match is Ross Smith, a former professional footballer who transitioned into punditry after a playing career that included stints in the USL Championship.

Meet the Commentary Team

Tony Husband brings over a decade of experience calling MLS matches to the broadcast. The Canadian commentator has become one of the most recognisable voices in North American soccer, known for his energetic delivery and in-depth tactical knowledge. Before focusing on MLS, Husband cut his teeth covering Canadian Premier League matches and CONCACAF Champions League fixtures.

Alongside him, Ross Smith offers valuable insight from a player's perspective. The Scottish-born defender enjoyed a 12-year professional career that saw him play for clubs in Scotland, England and the United States before retiring in 2018. Since moving into broadcasting, Smith has become a regular analyst on MLS Season Pass, particularly praised for his breakdown of defensive tactics and set-piece strategies.

How to Watch in the UK

British viewers can access the match through Apple TV's MLS Season Pass, which requires either a monthly or annual subscription. The service offers every MLS match live and on-demand, along with extensive pre-match and post-match coverage. While not available on traditional UK sports channels, the streaming quality and additional features like alternate camera angles make it an attractive option for dedicated MLS followers.

Match Preview: Columbus Crew vs Charlotte FC

This Eastern Conference matchup promises an intriguing tactical battle between two teams with contrasting styles. Columbus Crew, the 2023 MLS Cup champions, are known for their possession-based approach under head coach Wilfried Nancy. Their creative midfield trio typically dominates proceedings, looking to unlock defences with intricate passing patterns.

Meanwhile, Charlotte FC have developed into a more pragmatic side in their third MLS season. Manager Dean Smith (no relation to commentator Ross Smith) has implemented a compact defensive structure that looks to hit teams on the counter-attack, with their pacy wingers causing problems for opposing full-backs.

The late-night (UK time) kick-off means British fans will need to either stay up late or catch the replay on MLS Season Pass the following morning. For those choosing the former, the Husband-Smith commentary duo should provide an entertaining accompaniment to what promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between two Eastern Conference rivals.