Minnesota United FC loses game and players

After a successful christening of Allianz Field, the Loons traveled to Toronto. After taking the lead thrice in the match, Minnesota United collapsed, allowing two goals in the dying moments of the match. Things went from bad to worse as first DP Ján Greguš and later Francisco Calvo earned red cards for ill-advised fouls. As a result, the Loons will be without both for at least one match.

Adrian Heath and company face a tough task. The next week sees the Loons face Zlatan and the L.A. Galaxy on Wednesday, followed by Wayne Rooney and D.C. United on Sunday.

Matthew Doyle on league and Minnesota’s defense

As always, Matthew Doyle’s “Armchair Analyst” series is worth reading. He brings bad tidings to Loons fans, however, and points out that after allowing 70 goals in 2017 and 71 in 2018, Minnesota is now on pace to allow 72 in 2019. There’s more to it than that, but the gist is that Minnesota’s problems run deeper than talent; something many have suspected for some time.

News bits

Minnesota United FC hope to grow “global brand” with international friendlies

MLS league recap

Christian Ramirez scores in 4-1 win for LAFC over Seattle Sounders

D.C. United falls 2-0 to New York City FC

San Jose Earthquakes shock Sporting KC, win 4-1

New York Red Bulls fall 1-0 to New England Revolution

Portland Timbers’ slow slide, win 3-1 over Columbus Crew

FC Dallas win 2-1 over Atlanta United

Orlando City SC win 1-0 over Vancouver Whitecaps

Montreal Impact fall 3-0 to Philadelphia Union

Chicago Fire win 4-1 over Colorado Rapids

Galaxy and Houston trade PKs, Galaxy win 2-1

Minnesota United give up lead to lose 4-3 to Toronto FC

FC Cincinnati falls 3-0 to Real Salt Lake