Minnesota United FC and Orlando City SC served up one of the season’s most dramatic MLS finishes on Saturday night, settling for a pulsating 3-3 draw at Allianz Field after six goals, a five-minute home turnaround and a stoppage-time Orlando rescue act.
Orlando took a 1-0 lead into the interval through Daryl Dike, who struck in the 28th minute. The visitors then appeared to take control when Antoine Griezmann doubled the advantage in the 64th minute.
But Minnesota produced a breathtaking response. Marcus Caldeira began the comeback in the 71st minute, before Anthony Markanich headed in the equaliser three minutes later. Kelvin Yeboah completed the stunning reversal in the 75th minute, firing Minnesota from 2-0 down to 3-2 ahead in a remarkable spell.
The Loons looked set to see out a memorable victory despite Orlando controlling 56.3 percent of possession. Minnesota were the more frequent attacking side, however, registering 21 shots, nine on target and eight corners.
There was one final twist in the third minute of stoppage time. Tyrese Spicer struck in the 90+3rd minute to level the match for Orlando and deny Minnesota the three points. It was a cruel late blow for the hosts, but a draw that reflected the relentlessness and attacking quality shown by both sides.
Minnesota United next host the Portland Timbers on September 5, while Orlando City travel to face San Diego FC on the same day.
Goals
- Orlando City SC: Daryl Dike 28′, Antoine Griezmann 64′, Tyrese Spicer 90+3′
- Minnesota United FC: Marcus Caldeira 71′, Anthony Markanich 74′, Kelvin Yeboah 75′
