Minnesota United secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Inter Miami at home in St. Paul, extending their winning streak to three matches across all competitions.
The Loons took control early when Bongokuhle Hlongwane opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on a well-executed attacking sequence. Minnesota doubled their advantage just before halftime through Anthony Markanich’s header from a set piece, giving them a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break.
Inter Miami, playing without key attackers Luis Suarez and Fafa Picault, showed signs of life early in the second half when Lionel Messi scored his sixth MLS goal of the season. The Argentine superstar converted Jordi Alba’s pass with a quick redirect into the net, momentarily reducing the deficit to 2-1.
However, Minnesota quickly reasserted their dominance. An unfortunate own goal by Marcelo Weigandt from a corner kick in the 68th minute extended Minnesota’s lead to 3-1. Just two minutes later, Robin Lod capped off the scoring with a clinical finish after excellent work from Tani Oluwaseyi, who beat his defender and delivered a perfect cross.
The victory moves Minnesota United to 22 points (6-2-4), temporarily placing them among the Western Conference leaders. Their effective set-piece execution proved decisive, with two goals coming from dead-ball situations.
For Inter Miami, this represents their most lopsided defeat in MLS this season. Despite Messi’s continued scoring form, the absence of Suarez significantly impacted their attacking options. The loss drops them to 21 points (6-2-3) in the Eastern Conference standings.
Minnesota’s balanced attack and defensive organization have been hallmarks of their recent success. Under coach Adrian Heath, the Loons have developed into one of the league’s most formidable home teams, with their tactical discipline and counter-attacking prowess making them particularly dangerous against possession-oriented sides like Miami.
The match highlighted Minnesota’s growing status as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference, while exposing some vulnerabilities in Inter Miami’s squad depth when missing key players.
