- Kelvin Yeboah scores match-winner for second consecutive game
- Dayne St. Clair notches back-to-back clean sheets with critical saves
- San Jose dominates 68% possession but wastes 15 shot attempts
- Minnesota United climbs MLS standings with clinical counterattacking strategy
In a tactical showdown at PayPal Park, Minnesota United capitalized on razor-sharp efficiency to defeat the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0. Forward Kelvin Yeboah continued his scoring surge, delivering a 38th-minute backheel volley that proved decisive. The play began with Tani Oluwaseyi’s acrobatic header from the end line, which found Michael Boxall for a deft setup to Yeboah’s clinical finish.
San Jose, fresh off commanding wins against Real Salt Lake and Sporting Kansas City, entered the match with a league-best +5 goal differential. Despite controlling 68% possession and outshooting Minnesota 15-9, the Earthquakes struggled to convert chances. Goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair stood tall for Minnesota, making two pivotal saves to preserve his second straight shutout. Minnesota’s defense, led by Boxall, limited San Jose to just three shots on target despite relentless pressure.
Strategic Edge in Transition
Minnesota’s victory underscored a growing MLS trend: Possession dominance doesn’t guarantee results. The Loons replicated Atlanta United’s Week 2 upset over Columbus, where a 32% possession rate yielded a 3-1 win. San Jose’s 15 shots—only 20% on target—highlighted their lack of precision, reminiscent of LAFC’s recent 0-0 draw against Seattle despite 62% possession.
Yeboah’s emergence as a clutch scorer addresses Minnesota’s long-standing offensive inconsistency. His partnership with playmaker Oluwaseyi, who leads MLS in aerial duel wins (83%), offers a blueprint for breaching compact defenses. Meanwhile, St. Clair’s 87.5% save percentage ranks top-five among MLS goalkeepers, cementing his role as Minnesota’s defensive linchpin.
Playoff Implications
With this win, Minnesota (2-1-0) joins Western Conference leaders LA Galaxy on six points. San Jose (2-1-0) remains competitive but must address finishing woes before facing high-powered Houston next week. Coach Luchi Gonzalez praised his team’s resilience: “We’re thriving in high-pressure moments—that’s what playoff teams are built on.”