Leagues Cup has landed, and what a landing it was. Minnesota United more than did their part in proving which league is better with their 4-0 destruction of Club Puebla. MNUFC was sharp from back to front, with nearly every player having a moment to show their quality.
Right from the kick, the Loons showed that they were here to win. Teemu Pukki took the first shot of the game, attempting and nearly connecting on a glorious chip from the right side of the box. Though his effort hit the top of the net, it was a sign of things to come for the away side … playing in their home venue. Leagues Cup isn’t confusing at all.
The Loons looked comfortable and under control early on, despite holding just 40% of possession in the first half. There was a distinct difference in the style of play employed by each side, with Puebla’s quick, close passing putting their technical skills on full display. Meanwhile, MNUFC opted to counterattack, utilizing the speed and creativity of Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Teemu Pukki, and Emanuel Reynoso.
20 minutes in, the game had acquired a bit of an edge, with 16 total fouls called in the first half alone. Despite the chippy nature of the game, DJ Taylor found Bongi on the breakaway in the 24th minute. The South African international carried the ball with strength and speed, blowing past his defender and firing a shot into the bottom left corner to snatch the lead.
Puebla continued to move the ball quickly, but the goal inspired them to defend harder than before. They came back with renewed vigor, drawing a red card out of Michael Boxall in the 30th minute. The man advantage was hardly noticeable for the remainder of the first half, though, as the Loons heaped the pressure on and nearly found the second before the whistle.
Now comes the second half. Oh, that wonderful, wonderful second half. 10 men on the field? No problem; Bongi counts as two. Free-kick in shooting distance? Count it: we’ve got the best Argentinian dead-ball specialist in the league.
The Loons exploded in an awe-inspiring avalanche of attacking antics in the second 45, leaving Puebla looking dejected and defeated by the hour mark. Despite several substitutions at the break, Los Camoteros simply couldn’t handle the Minnesota heat.
Let’s relive it, shall we?
The first of the three second-half strikes came in the 51st minute, when Rey’s RIGHT-FOOTED cross found the head of a wide-open Bongi at the back post. The winger made no mistake with the finish, picking out the top corner and doubling the lead with authority.
Just eight minutes later, Hlongwane returned the favor, finding El Rey for the cheeky chip and a 3-0 lead. The persistent Loons showed no signs of slowing down whatsoever, and they really saved the best for last.
Words can’t do that free kick justice. Watch it again and drink it in. Better than Miami’s? Who’s to say?
I am. And I say it was definitely better.
Everything seemed to go right for the Black and Blue tonight, despite going down a man in the first half. If you hadn’t seen the red card, you likely never would have known the Loons were at a disadvantage. Tireless workrate and fantastic interplay saw them truly earn the scoreline, with little to no hiccups to worry about. The standout performances of Bongi and Rey were nothing short of inspiring, putting each of their greatest attributes on display in the best way possible.
While Puebla had flashes of technical excellence early on, they lacked the stamina and consistency to accomplish anything against an opponent that was simply better than them on the night. What a day to be a loon! I think I love Leagues Cup.
UP NEXT
Minnesota United FC vs. Chicago Fire FC
Allianz Field | Saint Paul, Minnesota
07.27.23 | Leagues Cup Group Stage Game 2
7:30 pm CT (Watch free on AppleTV’s MLS Season Pass)
