The Sportspedia
Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
The Sporting Kansas City has been the best team throughout the Major League Soccer Season but being the best in the season does not guarantee anything on a playoff format, as they were shown today with their elimination by Minnesota United F.C.
The start of the first half was very close but that changed when Minnesota scored its first goal. Since there they dominated the match. Emmanuel Reynoso (ARG), former Boca Juniors player, starred with the assists for the three goals.
The first two goals were scored by Kevin Molino (TTO) at 25′ and 37′. The third one was especially good, with a header by Bakaye Dibassi (MLI) at 39′. Kansas was hoping for the first half to end soon, as they were continuously under attack.
Kansas Coach, Peter Vermes (USA), tried to shake up the game with four substitutions in the second half but none of the two teams seemed to work seamlessly and the goal opportunities were scarce.
Kansas City was not able to align Alan Pulido (MEX), one of their over-the-cap Designated Player- since he is still unable to play following a knee injury.
Seattle defeated Dallas 1-0 to reach the “Conference Final” for a second year in a row and they expect Minnesota for their game on December 7. The other MLS Cup Semifinal will have New England Revolution and Columbus Crew.
Lineups:
Kansas City:
Melia (USA)
Lindsey (USA)
Punčec (CRO)
Reid (NZL)
Dia (USA) substituted by Martins (POR)
Ilie (ESP)
Russell (SCO)
Espinoza (HON) substituted by Hernández (USA)
Busio (USA) substituted by Kinda (ISR)
Gerso (GNB) substituted by Hurtado (USA)
Shelton (USA)
Minnesota United F.C.
St. Clair (CAN)
Gasper (USA)
Dibassy (MLI)
Boxall (NZL)
Métanire (MDG)
Alonso (CUB) substituted by Dotson (USA)
Greguš (SVK)
Molino (TTO) substituted by Hayes (USA)
Reynoso (ARG) substituted by Hairston (USA)
Finlay (USA)
Lod (FIN)
