Minnesota United showed up late to steal all three points after a late collapse from a ten-man Sporting KC. Here are three things we learned.
Ahead of Sunday evening’s Group D opener between Sporting Kansas City and Minnesota United, Sporting appeared to be the clear favorite as the Loons were without Ike Opara and Ozzy Alonso as well as star striker Luis Amarilla. Despite the three key absences, as well as being a goal behind and not playing well at all, the game turned on its head. Tim Melia was sent off as he rushed out of his area and felled Aaron Schoenfeld before a Khiry Shelton own goal and Kevin Molino strike handed Minnesota the three points.
Here are three things we learned from Minnesota’s 2-1 victory.
3. Gutsy win for Minnesota
Despite all the key players missing, Minnesota United ground out a win that was far from impressive in terms of the style of play. They were completely outplayed in the first 60 minutes or so but quickly turned the tables after VAR disallowed an equalizer.
Minnesota will hope to return a healthy Ozzy Alonso and Luis Amarilla to keep the momentum into Friday’s contest with Real Salt Lake. With three untimely absences combined with their first game since early March, competing with a high-performing Sporting KC was never really realistic. The Loons certainly didn’t execute their gameplan anywhere near perfection, but they were able to stay within striking distance to steal all three points against a questionable Sporting KC team that will be scratching their heads at how they scored just once.
Minnesota cannot be too overjoyed at this win, but it does hand them momentum and a strong start to a three-game group stage. They will need to play better in future matches, but their ability to win games they do not deserve to win is admirable and invaluable.