Major League Soccer kicked off its 30th season with an exciting match as LAFC faced Minnesota United at BMO Stadium. Unfortunately for the visiting Loons, the game ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat, despite their valiant efforts.
The match was not filled with goals, yet it showcased plenty of dynamic action, keeping spectators engaged until the final whistle. In their strategic 5-3-2 formation, Minnesota United sought to contain the formidable Denis Bouanga by employing Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Carlos Harvey on the right flank. Tani Oluwaseyi and Kelvin Yeboah led the attacking front, supported by the experienced midfield trio of Wil Trapp, Hassani Dotson, and Joaquín Pereyra, while the defense comprised Joseph Rosales at left wingback and Michael Boxall alongside Morris Duggan.
As the first half unfolded, both teams exchanged calculated counter-attacks, but clear opportunities were notably scarce until the 43rd minute when the first shot on target was taken. It was not until the 78th minute that LAFC broke through, thanks to Jeremy Ebobisse’s stunning left-footed goal from outside the box. The Loons felt they had a chance to strike first in the 12th minute when Yeboah’s well-placed shot hit the post, a moment that hinted at what could have been.
The latter stages of the match remained tense, with a well-placed strike from substitute Sang Bin Jeong hitting the crossbar in the 88th minute, ending Minnesota’s hopes of earning a draw. The frustration was palpable in Head Coach Eric Ramsay’s post-match remarks, where he expressed disappointment over missed opportunities. “It felt like it was a game that we were in all the way through,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on chances in such competitive matches.
Although the Loons surrendered much of the ball to their opponents, Ramsay noted the performance reflected a well-prepared team. He commended the squad’s discipline and resilience against what he predicts will be one of the top teams in the league. “We didn’t dominate the ball, but that was by design… I was pleased with the crux of the performance,” he acknowledged.
Despite the loss, the match revealed several positive aspects for Minnesota United. Hlongwane and Harvey successfully limited Bouanga’s influence throughout most of the match, and Duggan showcased depth on the backline with a commendable first start for the club. Yeboah’s dynamic presence kept LAFC’s defense on alert, reflecting the potential for a strong season ahead.
Coach Ramsay’s feedback indicates a team that can build on its performance, pointing toward opportunities for growth in the upcoming matches. This resilience and readiness signal a promising outlook for the Loons moving forward in the season.