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Whitecaps surge in MLS with stunning victory

Ryan Gauld Weaves Magic with Three Sensational Assists, Leading Vancouver Whitecaps to a Dominant 3-1 Win Over Minnesota United

By Izabelle Franca

Jul 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Vancouver Whitecaps FC forward Brian White (24) and midfielder Ryan Gauld (25) celebrates their teams win after the game at Allianz Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Vancouver Whitecaps FC forward Brian White (24) and midfielder Ryan Gauld (25) celebrates their teams win after the game at Allianz Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports / Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
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There's nothing quite like watching a soccer player deliver that perfect pass, almost like it was hand-drawn. That's exactly what Ryan Gauld did, guiding Vancouver Whitecaps to a spectacular 3-1 victory over Minnesota United FC. With three jaw-dropping assists, Gauld not only shone but also helped the Whitecaps climb to fourth place in the Western Conference of the MLS.

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The Caps, now boasting 9 wins, 4 draws, and 7 losses, seem to have found their rhythm, securing their second consecutive win and leaving Minnesota (8W-5D-8L) in their wake, sinking the Loons to their fifth straight defeat—a dubious record for the franchise.

From the first whistle, Gauld made his presence known. In the fourth minute, he capitalized on a sloppy pass from defender Michael Boxall, intercepted the ball, and with surgical precision, found Brian White free in the box. White, with the coolness of a seasoned pro, finished with style, leaving goalkeeper Alec Smir, making his league debut, with no chance. This wasn't just any goal—it was White's 40th, breaking the club's regular season record, surpassing former striker Camilo Sanvezzo.

But Gauld was just getting started. In a corner kick, he received a short pass from Sebastian Berhalter and delivered the ball onto the head of Mathías Laborda, who rose majestically to nod it into the net.

Minnesota United, desperately trying to turn the game around, had a golden opportunity when goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka was stripped of the ball. Bongokuhle Hlongwane crossed to Robin Lod, who seemed to have a clear shot at goal. But defender Ranko Veselinović, like a true hero, blocked the shot, keeping the score in Whitecaps' favor.

The pressure continued, and soon after, referee Victor Rivas pointed to the penalty spot following a handball in the Whitecaps' area. Joseph Rosales stepped up for the spot-kick, but Takaoka showed why he's one of the league's best, making a firm save. However, in the subsequent corner, the Loons finally found the net, with Hlongwane capitalizing on a rebound to narrow the lead.

In the second half, Minnesota came close to equalizing several times, especially with Jeong Sang-bin, whose deflected shot nearly hit the post. But it was Gauld who once again made the difference. He pressured Michael Boxall, forcing an error from the defender, and took the opportunity to deliver a perfect assist to Brian White, who made no mistake.

With this result, the Whitecaps continue their ascent in the standings, showing that with players like Ryan Gauld and Brian White, the sky's the limit. This dynamic duo has not only put the team in contention but also brought hope and excitement to the fans.

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