Minnesota United welcomed Vancouver Whitecaps to Allianz Field as they looked to improve their playoff position in the MLS Western Conference. The Loons have been undefeated in the US Open Cup and league since the 8th June, winning seven of eight matches. An opponent with this run of form was the last thing that the Vancouver Whitecaps needed. They haven’t won a match since a 2-1 victory over FC Dallas at the end of May. The Canadians have the second-worst record in MLS, and this match was an excellent example of why.
The Loons run of form this summer has been more impressive since they’ve done most of it without Romain Metanire, who started for Madagascar during their surprise run to the quarter-finals of this summer’s Africa Cup of Nations. They were able to overcome this absence with a dangerous attack, with Darwin Quintero responsible for two goals and two assists in the previous four matches, while Mason Toye has got a point in his last five appearances.
This matchup looked like it should have been a comfortable victory for Minnesota United, but Vancouver defended well. They struggled to present any threat going forward, but they defended successfully. The away side avoided the type of mistakes and mental lapses that have punished them severely this summer.
Want to read more? Click here
