In an exciting match at Allianz Field, Minnesota United triumphed over Houston with a score of 3-1, thanks to two remarkable goals from Bongokuhle Hlongwane. Hlongwane found the net with a header and a second goal from open play at the 60th and 62nd minutes of the match, solidifying his importance in this victory.
Additionally, Robin Lod netted another goal for Minnesota United in the 69th minute, increasing their lead. Houston did manage to score, with Felipe Andrade finding the back of the net just after the break, converting an opportunity in the 49th minute following a smart assist from Franco Escobar, sending the ball to the bottom right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Hlongwane’s performance not only earned him two goals but also the title of ‘Player of the Match’ as he took three shots aimed at the goal throughout the game.
Robin Lod also shone for Minnesota, contributing significantly with one goal of his own.
Under the guidance of coach Eric Ramsay, Minnesota arrayed a 5-4-1 formation featuring Wessel Speel in goal, while the defense comprised Julian Gressel, Michael Boxall, Jefferson Díaz, Nicolás Romero, and Anthony Markanich. In midfield, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Wil Trapp, Owen Gene, and Robin Lod played pivotal roles, with Kelvin Yeaboah leading the attack.
On the opposite end, Houston, managed by Benjamin Olsen, set up in a 4-3-3 formation with Jonathan Bond between the sticks, supported by defenders Griffin Dorsey, Erik Sviatchenko, Pablo Ortiz, and Franco Escobar. Their midfield included Brooklyn Raines, Artur de Lima, and Nicolás Lodeiro, while the attacking trio consisted of Ondrej Lingr, Ezequiel Ponce, and Sebastian Kowalczyk.
The match was officiated by referee Sergii Demianchuk.
Looking ahead, Minnesota United is set to visit FC Dallas, while Houston will be traveling to face San Diego FC.
Substitutions in Minnesota United
71’ 2H – Owen Gene out for Joaquín Pereyra
83’ 2H – Julian Gressel out for Jeong Sangbin, Bongokuhle Hlongwane out for Alisa Randell, and Kelvin Yeaboah out for DJ Taylor
94’ 2H – Anthony Markanich out for Devin Padelford
Yellow Cards for Minnesota United:
52’ 1H – Michael Boxall
6’ 2H – Jefferson Díaz (holding an opponent to prevent advancement)
33’ 2H – Kelvin Yeaboah
36’ 2H – Joaquín Pereyra
Substitutions in Houston
60’ 2H – Nicolás Lodeiro out for Amine Bassi and Erik Sviatchenko out for Felipe Andrade
74’ 2H – Ondrej Lingr out for Lawrence Ennali and Ezequiel Ponce out for Gabriel Segal
81’ 2H – Artur de Lima out for Duane Holmes
Yellow Card for Houston:
35’ 1H – Griffin Dorsey