AUSTIN, Texas – In a thrilling season opener, Minnesota United secured a 2-2 draw against Austin FC on Saturday night, thanks to a dramatic 90th-minute goal from Kelvin Yeboah. The late equalizer salvaged a point for the Loons in their tenth season in Major League Soccer, marking a resilient start to the 2026 campaign.
The match, played at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, saw both teams trade goals throughout the contest, showcasing an open and attacking style of play. Minnesota United, under fresh head coach Cameron Knowles, demonstrated perseverance and spirit, battling back from a second-half deficit to earn the draw. The result highlights the team’s determination and ability to compete on the road against a formidable opponent.
Yeboah’s Late Strike Secures Point for Minnesota United
Kelvin Yeboah, who scored nine goals in 30 appearances last season, proved to be the hero for Minnesota United, heading home a crucial goal in the final moments of the game. The assist came from defender Devin Padelford, who entered the match as a substitute in the 78th minute for Anthony Markanich. The Associated Press reported that Yeboah’s goal capped off a hard-fought contest.
The game began with Austin FC taking the lead in the 7th minute through defender Brendan Hines-Ike, assisted by newcomer Facundo Torres. Hines-Ike’s goal was his fourth career goal in 105 appearances. Torres, a recent acquisition for Austin FC, arrived with a reported $9.5 million transfer fee after previously playing for Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras and Orlando City, where he was the all-time leading scorer with 37 goals and 17 assists in three seasons.
Minnesota United responded before halftime, leveling the score with a goal from second-year defender Morris Duggan. Duggan headed the ball into the net off an assist from Joaquín Pereyra, marking his first career goal in MLS. The first half ended with the score tied 1-1, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
Austin FC Briefly Regains the Lead
Austin FC regained the lead in the 78th minute through Myrto Uzuni, who scored his sixth goal in 27 appearances last season. Uzuni’s goal was assisted by Jon Gallagher and Robert Taylor. Yet, Minnesota United refused to concede defeat, continuing to press for an equalizer.
The Loons’ resilience paid off in the 90th minute with Yeboah’s dramatic goal, securing a valuable point on the road. The draw demonstrated Minnesota United’s ability to fight back from adversity and maintain composure under pressure. MNUFC.com noted the presence of at least four tubas being played in the crowd, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the match.
Goalkeeping Change for Minnesota United
The match also marked the debut of Drake Callender in goal for Minnesota United. Callender, acquired from Charlotte FC, finished with four saves in his first start, replacing Dayne St. Clair, who signed with Inter Miami as a free agent. Callender previously won two titles with Inter Miami before joining Charlotte FC. Brad Stuver, meanwhile, stopped two shots for Austin FC in his sixth season with the club.
Head coach Cameron Knowles earned a draw in his first match with Minnesota United, signaling a positive start to his tenure with the club. Knowles will be looking to build on this result as the Loons continue their 2026 MLS campaign. The team’s performance in the season opener showcased their potential and determination to compete for a playoff spot.
Key Takeaways
- Kelvin Yeboah’s 90th-minute header secured a 2-2 draw for Minnesota United against Austin FC.
- The match featured goals from Morris Duggan, his first career MLS goal, and Austin FC’s Brendan Hines-Ike and Myrto Uzuni.
- Drake Callender made his debut in goal for Minnesota United, recording four saves.
- New Austin FC signing Facundo Torres provided an assist on the opening goal.
- Head coach Cameron Knowles earned a draw in his first match in charge of Minnesota United.
Minnesota United will return to action next week, hosting [Opponent and Date to be confirmed]. Austin FC will travel to face [Opponent and Date to be confirmed]. Fans can find the latest updates and schedules on the official MLS website and team websites. The Loons’ performance in this opening match suggests a promising season ahead, with a blend of experienced players and emerging talent.
The draw against Austin FC demonstrates Minnesota United’s commitment to competing at a high level in MLS. The team’s ability to overcome adversity and secure a point on the road is a testament to their resilience and determination. As the season progresses, Minnesota United will seem to build on this positive start and establish themselves as a contender in the Western Conference.
The match also highlighted the growing competitiveness of Major League Soccer, with teams investing in talent and striving for success. The addition of players like Facundo Torres to Austin FC and the emergence of young players like Morris Duggan for Minnesota United demonstrate the league’s increasing quality and depth.
Minnesota United’s next challenge will be to maintain their momentum and translate their road performance into success at home. The team’s supporters will be eager to observe them build on this positive start and compete for a playoff berth. The 2026 MLS season promises to be an exciting one, with Minnesota United poised to create a significant impact.
The Loons were staring at a potential loss to begin the new season after Austin right back Jon Gallagher got enough space against the left side of the Loons defense to score at the back post in the 78th minute. Robert Taylor provided the cross to set up the 2-1 lead. The Pioneer Press reported that breakdowns in the Loons’ box defending led to two goals conceded.
The next confirmed action will be Minnesota United’s home game against [Opponent and Date to be confirmed]. Stay tuned to world-today-journal.com for further updates and analysis of the 2026 MLS season. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and opinions on the match in the comments section below.
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