Minnesota United Remain Undefeated With 1-0 Win Over St. Louis City

April 2, 2023 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Minnesota United FC News Release

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — In the first-ever matchup between Minnesota United and St. Louis CITY SC, Minnesota defeated CITY SC 1-0, with a goal from forward Luis Amarilla, giving the Loons their third road victory and all three points.

St. Louis, coming into the game undefeated and at the top of the Western Conference, was quick on the transition throughout the first half and saw their best chance creation when Eduard Lowen found space atop Minnesota’s 18-yard box, striking a right footed shot towards the bottom right corner, where goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair made the diving save.

Despite their persistence, the Loons maintained a solid, defensive run of form. MNUFC put on the pressure later in the half and were strong on the counterattack. Forward Luis Amarilla snuck a pass behind St. Louis’ backline to midfielder Kervin Arriaga, who’s shot was blocked by defender Kyle Hiebert.

After the half, both squads were frantic in their play, eager for the first goal of the match. The Loons were dangerous on offense with several scoring opportunities. Forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane dribbled down the center of St. Louis’ defense, sending forward Mender Garcia forward in a 1v1 with goalkeeper Roman Burki, winning the battle but striking the post from the six-yard box. CITY SC created multiple scoring chances but were ultimately shut down by a unified Minnesota defense.

In the 78th minute, Luis Amarilla drew a foul in the penalty area, conceded by St. Louis’ Kyle Hiebert. Amarilla took the penalty-kick attempt and scored the go-ahead goal for the Loons. The shot was the Paraguayan forwards’ second goal of the season, his first also coming from the spot against the Colorado Rapids.

Towards the end of the match, St. Louis’ Samuel Adeniran nearly found the scored in the 95th minute with a shot from the center of the box after turning to face St. Clair in a 1v1 scenario, but his attempt was too high and flew over the crossbar. Minnesota was able to render St. Louis scoreless after 97 minutes of play, a team that has notched 15 goals in five matches and leads league with 15 points.

Minnesota’s victory is the first time the club has won its first three road games to start the season.

With the result, Minnesota United improves to a 3-0-2 (W-L-D) record with 11 points and remains as one of three undefeated teams in the league.

ATTENDANCE: 22,423

BELL BANK MAN OF THE MATCH: Defender Miguel Tapias

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