SAINT PAUL, Minn. –
Franco Fragapane scored early within the first half, Jonathan Gonzalez added an insurance coverage purpose within the second and Minnesota United defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-0 on Sunday to clinch a playoff spot in Major League Soccer’s Western Conference.
Minnesota United (15-14-6) got here into the match needing a win or tie to advance and improved to 3-0-2 all-time towards Vancouver (12-16-7) at dwelling. The Whitecaps, who received three consecutive dwelling video games heading into the match, wanted a victory to seize a playoff berth.
Minnesota United entered play with only one level in its final six matches (0-5-1) earlier than beating Vancouver for a second time this season. It marked the primary time one staff beat the opposite twice in the identical season.
Emanuel Reynoso notched his eleventh help to go with 10 targets. He is considered one of three gamers to attain double figures in each classes this season – becoming a member of Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar and Carlos Vela of LAFC.
Dayne St. Clair stopped six photographs to earn a clear sheet for Minnesota United. Thomas Hasal had three saves for the Whitecaps.
The Whitecaps’ greatest alternative got here within the 63rd minute. Just a minute after coming into match, Lucas Cavallini discovered himself open within the field however may solely get his header towards the far put up the place Brian White clanged it off the crossbar.
A document 19,941 followers watched the Loons clinch at Allianz Field.
“I knew they’d turn up, I just wanted to make sure we did,” Minnesota coach Adrian Health mentioned in regards to the followers.
The Whitecaps have been 0-5-3 of their remaining eight highway matches and on Sunday they by no means actually threatened to pressure Minnesota to change its recreation plan despite the fact that they’d the ball 51 per cent of the time.