Minnesota United’s upcoming match against St. Louis City at Allianz Field on Sunday morning is of utmost importance. This game will decide their fate in the MLS postseason. The hosts currently hold the final automatic series qualification spot in the Western Conference, making this a crucial match for them. On the other hand, the visitors are 12th in the standings and out of playoff contention at the time of this match. The Western Conference has finalized all its playoff teams, and the top four seeds have been secured. The Seattle Sounders, LA Galaxy, Real Salt Lake, and LAFC will each have home-field advantage in the first round, in contrast to the Eastern Conference.
Minnesota United is currently in possession of the final automatic qualifier position, with a two-point lead over eighth-placed Vancouver. However, a loss in the upcoming match could see them slipping to eighth if Vancouver defeats RSL, as they would remain at 49 points. The Black and Blues will maintain the advantage in the tie-breaker, even if Portland wins and ties MNUFC on 49 points.
The hosts are determined to secure the victory, and they have gained momentum by remaining unblemished in their most recent four games, which include three victories and a draw, while also maintaining clean sheets in each of those games. With only 37 points, St. Louis City SC will be excluded from the playoff equation on decision day. However, their recent performance trends suggest an exciting match ahead. Their best option from this point forward is to climb to 10th place, which will necessitate Austin and Dallas to lose their final campaign matches.
The club chose to separate ways with South African Bradley Carnell on July 1 after nine matches without victory between mid-May and the end of June. St. Louis has only managed eight wins across their 33 games this season. John Hackworth served as the interim manager until the conclusion of the season. Although his average points per game is lower than his predecessor’s, who averaged 1.31, the American has led the team to three victories in their most recent four league matches.
With the home advantage and a strong drive to secure their playoff position, both teams have the best chance to score in this game. However, the match is not without its suspense, as both teams are grappling with injury concerns, adding an element of unpredictability to the game.