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Minnesota United crushed Real Salt Lake in a decisive 3‑1 win at America First Field in Sandy, Utah marking their first-ever MLS league win in Utah.
Real Salt Lake’s Brayan Vera gave Minnesota the early lead with a goal on his own team. Vera earned himself a red card for spitting on Loons captain Michel Boxal during the Oct. 2, 2024 regular-season match, adding a sweet irony to the error.
Victor Olatunji equalized the game at the 15-minute mark in his first appearance for Salt Lake and scoring his first career MLS goal.
Robin Lod regained the lead for the Loons 36 minutes into the game, extending Lod’s status as Minnesota United’s all-time top scorer.
Joaquín Pereyra delivered another goal for the Loons in the 51st minute. Pereyra scored the only goal in last week’s 1-0 win over Seattle.
Loons goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair made five saves in the game.
Strong showing in the Western Conference
The win significantly boosts Minnesota United’s playoff and seeding outlook. With six games remaining in the regular season, the Loons are just two points behind Western Conference leaders San Diego.
“We have a group of players in there that are really motivated to take that spot above us now,” coach Eric Ramsay said after the match.
The Loons face the Portland Timbers on Saturday at Allianz Field in St. Paul.
English (US) ·