Game Recap: Minnesota Dominates the Quakes 5-2

Minnesota United thrashed the Earthquakes on Saturday night 5-2. The Loons lined up the same as last week against Portland, with the same 4-2-3-1 formation as well. Minnesota’s attack was counter-attack focused, San Jose had the majority of possession but could not create enough chances.

Minnesota United opened up the scoring in the 12th minute off a corner kick. Ike Opara made a quick near post run and headed it into the back of the net.

Just a few minutes later Tommy Thompson cut inside on Chase Gasper and he stabbed and took him down. After VAR reviewed it, the penalty kick was given and converted. After a few minutes, it looked like the Quakes had gained some momentum, but it was quickly thwarted by Jan Gregus after a nice pass from Amarilla.

The Loons continued to surge forward and Amarilla cashed in number 2 of his 25 goals with a quality header. Kevin Molino did a nice job to cut the ball back and find the Paraguayan forward near the penalty mark.

At the half Minnesota lead 4-1 with a goal from Finnish winger Robin Lod who cleaned up after Amarilla’s penalty kick was saved. A concern for Minnesota after a dominant half was that Kevin Molino was subbed out with an apparent injury a few minutes before the half ended.

The second half started slow for both sides. Minnesota sat in defending and looked a bit slow. The Quakes scored in the 52nd minute after a poor clearance and a mess in the box. United continued to sit back but found some counter-attacking offense. In the 72nd minute, the Loons earned a corner kick and Ike Opara scored off his head for his second of the game.

The Loons watched the game out and earned a very impressive 5-2 victory in California. Another 3 points for Minnesota means that they will open Allianz Field with a perfect record. United comes home for the first time this season next Sunday to play New York Red Bulls at 6 PM local time.