After a loss on Saturday snapped their seven-game unbeaten run, Minnesota United kicked off a new streak on Wednesday. The Loons beat the Colorado Rapids 1-0 at Allianz Field, behind a Darwin Quintero goal.
Quintero's night didn't come without adversity. The Colombian stepped up to take a penalty, after Danny Wilson brought down Chase Gasper off the ball, but his clipped spot-kick was saved by Clint Irwin. Less than two minutes later, Quintero made amends.
Running onto a beautiful through ball from Kevin Molino, Quintero found himself 1v1 with Irwin again. He'd make no mistakes this time, slotting his shot under an on-rushing Irwin. It was all the Loons would need.
Abu Danladi nearly added Minnesota an insurance goal late on, but his diving header flicked off the crossbar. Ike Opara, too, had a close-range header saved.
Goals
- 39' - MIN - Darwin Quintero | WATCH
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Minnesota return to winning ways and take another step not only to playoff qualification for the first time in their MLS history, but towards hosting a playoff game at Allianz Field. The entered the night tied for second place, though just two points above seventh. Every point matters in the West.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: Great pass, calm finish.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: Molino's expert assist on Quintero wasn't the only dime he dropped, as he could have had another assist or two had his teammates' finishing been up to par. His cross led to the penalty, too. Shouts to Vito Mannone as well.
Up Next
- MIN: Saturday, August 8 vs. Orlando City SC (8 pm ET | MLS LIVE on ESPN+ in US, DAZN in Canada)
- COL: Saturday, August 8 at Houston Dynamo (9 pm ET | MLS LIVE on ESPN+ in US, DAZN in Canada)
