MNUFC Overcomes Two Late Goals to Advance in Shootout in U.S. Open Cup

May 10, 2023 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Minnesota United FC News Release

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota United hosted runners-up of the Audi 2022 MLS Cup, the Philadelphia Union, in the Round of 32 of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, securing 3(7)-3(6) victory over the Eastern Conference side after 120 minutes of play and a shootout.

The start of the match was slow and controlled, with the Loons dominating the stat line on nearly all fronts. Minnesota managed the first 45 minutes of the game with 59% possession, generating multiple chances at goal and outshooting their opponents. The Loons deviated from their typical 4-2-3-1 and employed a 3-5-2 formation. Philadelphia saw their first solid chance at goal in the 35th minute when former NASL-era Loon, Damion Lowe launched a shot at goalkeeper Clint Irwin, who tipped the ball over the crossbar. Midfielder Joseph Rosales led MNUFC in scoring attempts in the first half, creating Minnesota’s best chance in the 40th minute with a left footed strike from the top of the Union’s box that sailed just wide of the post.

The second half followed a similar cadence to the first. In the 68th minute, DJ Taylor crossed the ball deep into Philadelphia’s defensive third, finding forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane who headed the ball into the top right corner of the net. Hlongwane’s goal was his third of the season in all competitions. Just over five minutes later, Hlongwane was on the run again, driving towards goal. Hlongwane, after a series of cutbacks, connected a pass to Joseph Rosales at the top of the box, who took a left footed shot and found the back of the net. The goal was Rosales’ first goal with the club across all competitions.

It didn’t take long for Philadelphia to answer back, despite being held scoreless for nearly 80 minutes. Wil Trapp’s pass forward was deflected, causing Chris Donovan to gain control to put a shot on the net and past Irwin. Seeking the equalizing goal, Philadelphia attacked Minnesota with a high press. In the waning seconds of the match, Kai Wagner struck a shot off the volley leveling the match at 2-2 moments before the final whistle in regulation.

Minnesota United was eager to regain their lead and found success in the 103rd minute. Joseph Rosales battled for the ball in the corner of the pitch and was able to drive a low ball through the Philadelphia defense to the feet of Bongokuhle Hlongwane, who once again, was able to capitalize on his space and bagged a brace to give the home side a…