Colorado Rapids Vs Minnesota United: 3 things we learned – Minnesota takes second

1. Loons look dangerous

The Round of 16 awaits Minnesota United, where they’ll face the Columbus Crew in a true prizefight. Their defense will have to tighten up against the likes of Gyasi Zardes and Lucas Zelarayan. The Crew have arguably been the best team in the tournament up to this point and will take some beating.

Nevertheless, Minnesota have proven themselves to be hugely dangerous. Ike Opara’s absence was always going to be apparent and time will tell whether that becomes their ultimate undoing, but they went unbeaten in one of the toughest groups in the competition and scored four goals across the three games, only failing to crack an excellent Real Salt Lake defense.

Throw in one of the best holding midfield tandems in the league, some dangerous wide players, and an enigmatic but potentially match-winning Kevin Molino and it is not hard to see how this team could cause an upset or two in the knockout stages.

Adrian Heath has his side clicking, creating chances and playing resolutely. This is what makes Minnesota a threat to anyone they come up against.