Minnesota United FC and San Diego FC shared the points in a hard-fought 1-1 MLS draw at Allianz Field on Saturday, with an early Tomás Chancalay goal cancelled out by Anders Dreyer from the penalty spot.
The Loons made the ideal start in Saint Paul. Chancalay struck after just 3 minutes to put Minnesota in front, rewarding the home side’s early intent and giving them a lead to protect for most of the match.
San Diego responded by taking control of the ball, finishing with 67.5% possession, but Minnesota remained dangerous without it. The hosts produced 14 shots, put eight on target and won eight corners, repeatedly asking questions of the visiting defensive shape despite seeing only 32.5% of possession.
The turning point arrived in the 64th minute. Dreyer converted a penalty to bring San Diego level at 1-1, with the forward also booked in the aftermath. Minnesota goalkeeper Drake Callender received a yellow card in the same minute.
Neither side could find a late winner, despite Minnesota’s greater accuracy in front of goal and San Diego’s territorial advantage. The result leaves Minnesota with a 6-6-6 league record, while San Diego move to 5-6-7.
It was a legitimate share of the points: Minnesota will feel they had enough pressure and chances to turn their fast start into victory, while San Diego can take encouragement from their composure in recovering from an early setback on the road.
Goals
- Minnesota United FC: Tomás Chancalay, 3′
- San Diego FC: Anders Dreyer, 64′ (penalty)
