In a thrilling encounter at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego FC edged out Minnesota United with a decisive 1-0 victory. Despite a commendable performance, Minnesota was unable to find the net, leaving them empty-handed.
The game’s sole goal came in the 71st minute, when Anders Dreyer showcased his striking prowess. Off a precise cross from Jeppe Tverskov, Dreyer found the back of the net with a sharp shot from inside the penalty area.
Dreyer’s exceptional performance made him the standout player of the match, contributing not only with his goal but also making three attempts on goal, proving crucial for San Diego FC’s success.
Another key player was goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega, who played a vital role by making four essential saves to keep Minnesota at bay and secure the clean sheet.
San Diego FC’s head coach, Michael Anthony Varas, set up his team in a 4-3-3 formation featuring Sisniega in goal; Ian Pilcher, Christopher McVey, Manu Duah, and Luca Bombino in defense; Aníbal Godoy, Jeppe Tverskov, and Onni Valakari in midfield; and a front line of Dreyer, Corey Baird, and Amahl Pellegrino.
On the other hand, Eric Ramsay’s Minnesota United opted for a defensive 5-4-1 setup, with Dayne St. Clair guarding the goal; a back five including Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Carlos Harvey, Michael Boxall, Morris Duggan, and Anthony Markanich; a midfield comprising Robin Lod, Nectarios Triantis, Wil Trapp, and Joaquín Pereyra; and Kelvin Yeaboah leading the attack.
The referee for this match was Rosendo Mendoza, who oversaw the tightly contested affair.
This result enables San Diego FC to advance to the much-anticipated Conference Final, a long-awaited achievement in this tournament.
Substitutions for San Diego FC
77’ 2T – Amahl Pellegrino was replaced by Hirving Lozano, Aníbal Godoy by Luca de la Torre, and Corey Baird by Marcus Ingvartsen
Bookings for San Diego FC:
31’ 2T Ian Pilcher (Fouling an opponent to prevent progress), 49’ 2T Pablo Sisniega (Time-wasting), and 49’ 2T Marcus Ingvartsen (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for Minnesota United
82’ 2T – Wil Trapp was substituted for Hassani Dotson 83’ 2T – Carlos Harvey left the field for Dominik Fitz
Bookings for Minnesota United:
15’ 1T Nectarios Triantis, 20’ 1T Kelvin Yeaboah, and 35’ 2T Anthony Markanich (Fouling an opponent to prevent progress)