In the first week of the MLS, San José Earthquakes claimed an emphatic 3-0 win over Sporting Kansas City, highlighted by a stellar performance from Daniel Munie, who netted two goals. Munie showcased his skill with two exquisite finishes, one coming in the 40th minute of the first half and the other in the 53rd minute. Preston Judd also made his mark by scoring a goal in the 44th minute, rounding off a fantastic team effort.
Munie’s outstanding display earned him recognition as the standout player of the match. The San José defender was crucial in not only scoring two goals but also clearing four dangerous balls from his area.
Another player who shone during the game was Preston Judd. The forward displayed his talent by scoring once and attempting three shots on target.
Head coach Bruce Arena opted for a 4-5-1 formation for San José Earthquakes, with Daniel Munie as the goalkeeper; Benji Kikanovic, Reid Roberts, Daniel Munie, and Dejuan Jones in defense; Beau Leroux, Ronaldo Vieira, Ousseni Bouda, Nikolas Tsakiris, and Jamar Ricketts in midfield; and Preston Judd leading the attack.
On the other hand, Sporting Kansas City’s manager, Raphael Wicky, set his team up in a 4-5-1 formation as well, with John Pulskamp guarding the goal; Justin Reynolds, Wyatt Meyer, Ian James, and Jayden Reid in defense; Jacob Bartlett, Manu García, Magomed Suleymanov, Jake Davis, and Calvin Harris in midfield; and Dejan Joveljic as the forward.
Referee Alexis Da Silva officiated the match at Avaya Stadium.
Looking ahead, San José Earthquakes will face Atlanta United at home in their next match, while Sporting Kansas City will take on Columbus Crew at their home ground.
Substitutions for San José Earthquakes
65’ 2T – Ronaldo Vieira replaced by Ian Harkes
70’ 2T – Preston Judd off for Jack Skahan; Dejuan Jones off for Vitor Costa
82’ 2T – Jamar Ricketts off for Paul Marie; Beau Leroux off for Jonathan González
Yellow Card for San José Earthquakes:
34’ 1T Daniel Munie (Foul to prevent the opponent from advancing)
Substitutions for Sporting Kansas City
36’ 1T – Justin Reynolds off for Kwaku Agyabeng
67’ 2T – Magomed Suleymanov off for Jansen Miller
90’ 2T – Calvin Harris off for Taylor Calheira