US Open Cup: Sporting Kansas City vs Minnesota United Preview
By Eric Harris
For the third time in four years, Sporting Kansas City and Minnesota United will face off in the U.S. Open Cup
It’s a familiar matchup, this is the third time the two will face off in the fourth round of America’s longest running tournament. Both time Sporting came out ahead before falling in the next round. Both teams will certainly be looking to break the trends of the previous years.
Sporting is just a few days removed from a disappointing draw against Montreal. On the other side Minnesota’s last match was the 3-0 loss in the same stadium they’re about to play in.
Sporting Kansas City
Last Year in Open Cup: Defeated Minnesota United 2-1, Lost to Houston Dynamo 1-3
Last Time Out: 1-1 Draw vs Montreal Impact
Player To Watch: Benny Feilhaber. He hasn’t produced goals and assists like he has in the past couple of seasons, but is just as important to the SKC midfield. With the crowded schedule this week, his presence will needed.
Why They Win: Sporting has played several games recently, but hasn’t had to travel. They should be able to put out most of their first choice players, and that combined with playing in Children’s Mercy Park makes them tough to beat.
Why They Won’t: Peter Vermes punts on the match with all of the schedule congestion and puts out a glorified USL side out there. Minnesota should be hungry to advance in a cup competition and it shows on the field.
Projected Starting XI:
Minnesota United
Last Year in Open Cup: Defeated Saint Louis FC 2-0, Lost to Sporting Kansas City 1-2
Last Time Out: 0-3 Loss at Sporting Kansas City
Player to Watch: Sam Cronin. His absence was felt the last time these two faced off. Minnesota was overrun in the midfield. Throughout the year, his addition has proved to be vital.
Why They Win: They can take advantage of a weakened Sporting KC side. If Minnesota gets a win, money is on Cristian Ramirez getting a goal or two as well.
Why They Won’t: We get a repeat of the previous matchup. The more possession Sporting KC gets, the worse it is for Minnesota. Don’t expect them to be as complacent as they were against Montreal.
Projected Starting XI
Prediction
How To Watch
Where: Wednesday – June 14th – 8:30 pm ET
When: Children’s Mercy Park – Kansas City, Kan.
How To Watch: YouTube – US Soccer’s Page