- Sporting KC erases three-goal deficit to end 10-match losing streak
- Dejan Joveljic scores decisive equalizer in 80th minute
- Minnesota United squanders historic lead despite Oluwaseyi brace
- Own goal sparks late-game momentum shift in Kansas City
In a stunning reversal of fortune, Sporting Kansas City delivered one of MLS's most memorable comebacks Saturday night, fighting back from a 3-0 deficit to draw Minnesota United 3-3. The result snapped a brutal 10-game losing streak dating to September 2023, offering relief to players and fans alike. New acquisition Dejan Joveljic proved crucial, netting the 80th-minute equalizer that capped a furious 12-minute scoring spree.
The match began as a nightmare for Sporting KC, with Minnesota United dominating early play. Hassani Dotson opened scoring in the 15th minute, followed by Tani Oluwaseyi's first-half brace. By the 46th minute, the Loons led 3-0 – a margin that historically predicts 98% win probability in MLS matches. However, Sporting KC's second-half substitutions changed the game's trajectory, showcasing the league's competitive parity.
Industry analysts note this comeback aligns with MLS's rising unpredictability – 23% of 2023 matches saw multi-goal comebacks, up from 14% in 2019. Sporting KC's resurgence also highlights the impact of strategic midseason signings. Joveljic, acquired from LA Galaxy, has now contributed to 4 goals in 6 appearances, proving his $1.2M transfer fee valuable.
A regional case study emerges when comparing this rally to St. Louis CITY SC's 2023 comeback against Austin FC. Both Midwest clubs leveraged home crowd energy to overcome multi-goal deficits, suggesting geographic rivalries intensify late-game pressure. Kansas City's Children's Mercy Park, previously a house of horrors for visitors, has now seen 8 goals scored in final 20 minutes across 2024 matches.
Psychological resilience proved key for Sporting KC. After Daniel Salloi's 68th-minute strike and Morris Duggan's unfortunate own goal, players demonstrated improved mental fortitude – a sharp contrast to their 2023 form where they lost 7 games by single goals. Goalkeeper John Pulskamp's three crucial saves maintained momentum, underscoring the importance of veteran leadership during slumps.
As both teams prepare for California opponents next week, this match serves as a microcosm of MLS's drama. For Minnesota United, questions linger about closing out games – they've now dropped 5 points from winning positions this season. Meanwhile, Sporting KC will look to build on this result when hosting LAFC, hoping to reignite their playoff aspirations.