Same record, different trajectories as LAFC visit Minnesota United

Two teams with identical records but opposite momentum collide as Minnesota United host Los Angeles FC on Saturday in Saint Paul, Minn.

Coming off a 1-0 win over Dallas FC on Wednesday, Minnesota (5-2-2, 17 points) has picked up a new offensive tempo. Anthony Markanich notched the most recent game-winner, but Kelvin Yeboah has provided the scoring impetus with three goals in Minnesota's last four matches, all victories as part of a 4-0-1 run.

LAFC (5-2-2, 17 points) sit with a mirrored resume but carry an 0-2-2 record in their last four matches across all competitions. With just three goals in that span, Los Angeles will need to reset its gameplan heading into Saint Paul, followed by the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals.

Minnesota is tied for third in the Western Conference with LAFC, but the Loons are the only team within the top eight to have a negative goal differential (minus-2).

LAFC are 1-1-1 in road matchups this season, while Minnesota has yet to lose at home (2-0-1).

Minnesota's newfound energy can also be contributed to goalie Drake Callender, who allowed just two goals and made 18 saves in the team's last five matches. On the other hand, LAFC goalie Hugo Lloris hasn't allowed a goal in seven of his eight MLS appearances this season but let four past in Sunday's loss to the San Jose Earthquakes.

LAFC defender Aaron Long saw the pitch on Wednesday for the first time since he ruptured his left Achilles in July 2025. Head coach Marc Dos Santos said there were more positive than negative takeaways from Long's first 45 minutes of the season.

"I think (Long) was aggressive in the right moments. He was connected with the back line," Dos Santos said. He also noted that Long's minute count will slowly increase as they assess the timeline for his full return.

Minnesota coach Cameron Knowles expressed concern about the quick turnarounds his team has been facing after matches.

"Certainly the tighter turnaround makes it difficult," Knowles said. "We've got a number of guys who've been clocking some serious minutes and significant mileage."

Knowles acknowledged that LAFC have also been playing a tight schedule and gave credit to their "incredible" start to the season.

"Regardless if they come to us full strength or they rotate their squad ... they're a very good team and certainly one that we have to be prepared for," Knowles said.

--Field Level Media