KC Reporter

Sporting Kansas City was defeated 3-0 by Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field on Saturday, October 4. The team used its 34th different lineup of the season, starting in a 3-5-2 formation.

The starting eleven included John Pulskamp, Ian James, Alan Montes, Robert Voloder, Jake Davis, Memo Rodríguez (replaced by Erik Thommy in the 64th minute), Nemanja Radoja (Santi Muñoz, 75’), Zorhan Bassong (Jacob Bartlett, 88’), Logan Ndenbe (Tim Leibold, 74’), Mason Toye (Daniel Salloi, 75’), and Dejan Joveljić. The substitutes were Ryan Schewe, Jansen Miller, Khiry Shelton, and Stephen Afrifa.

Early in the match, Sporting Kansas City managed to contain Minnesota’s attack with five midfielders and flexible roles for Rodríguez and Radoja. In the 12th minute, James had a header opportunity from a corner kick but missed wide.

Minnesota took the lead in the 25th minute when Anthony Markanich scored with a header following a free kick. After conceding the goal, Sporting Kansas City continued to push forward with Toye and Joveljić seeking chances to equalize.

In the 43rd minute, Toye had an attempt from close range that was saved by Minnesota’s goalkeeper. In the second half, Minnesota increased their pressure. Robin Lod’s effort in the 52nd minute was blocked by Davis. Joaquín Pereyra extended Minnesota's lead in the 59th minute with a second goal. Shortly after that goal, Pulskamp made an important save but Minnesota capitalized on the rebound to score their third and final goal.

Sporting Kansas City made its first substitution in the 64th minute when Erik Thommy replaced Rodríguez. Thommy tried to create more attacking opportunities for his team. In the 68th minute Joveljić forced another save from Markanich; on the rebound Radoja sent a long shot that hit the post.

After several substitutions late in the match Sporting Kansas City limited further chances for Minnesota but could not reduce the deficit. The team will return home to play its final match of the season against Houston Dynamo on October 18.