Minnesota, at the beginning of the season, probably wouldn't agree that they would make it this far in the Leagues Cup. They probably wouldn't have said it at the beginning of the Leagues Cup. Yet, the proof sits right in front of us. Minnesota United has surprised a lot of people and has made it to face the Boys in Gold in the Quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup tomorrow, 5:30 PM Central, at Geodis Park in Nashville.
After their win against Toluca, it's fair to say that although lopsided, Minnesota continues to pull off impressive games. Even with losing a 2-0 lead in the second half, Minnesota was able to advance because of defensive smarts. The Leagues Cup scoring leader is Minnesota's own Bongi Hlongwane, alongside Emanuel Reynoso tied for first in assists. Bongi also holds assists and SOT leads for the club. And historically, Minnesota is the only one to win a game in their rivalry with Nashville SC.
Not to say that Nashville themselves aren't prepared (and deadly) opponents; Hany Mukhtar, the German midfielder turned Nashville 'poster child', makes it hard for anyone who steps foot in Geodis to feel good about a win. But Minnesota claims a fantastic road record in 2023, and St. Clair is a linchpin goalkeeper with six clean sheets and know-how in the clutch.
Adrian Heath, Head Coach for Minnesota, is seemingly hopeful (if a little skeptical) of a Leagues Cup win. I say we should, too.
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