Minnesota United FC hasn't had the best 2023 MLS season. The Loons sit outside of a play-in spot, but the team remains within striking distance to reach postseason soccer.
The Loons will look to hit the ground running in this Leagues Cup that pins the clubs from LIGA MX and MLS. Their first opponent will be Club Puebla on Sunday, July 23 as both clubs will look to get an edge in Group Central 2, with Chicago Fire FC being the other team joining them.
Minnesota United FC form heading into Leagues Cup 2023?
The team led by manager Adrian Heath could use this competition to salvage their MLS season and win silverware. Even if The Loons don’t win the competition, finishing in the top three in the tournament could allow Minnesota United FC to clinch a spot in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Minnesota United FC is in a group that could see them advance to the knockout stage. Chicago Fire FC is also outside a play-in spot, and Club Puebla has struggled to start their LIGA MX Apertura 2023 season with one draw and one loss. With two beatable opponents, Heath should push his squad to win the group.
Emanuel Reynoso, the left foot that opens matches
The 27-year-old Argentine emerged from Club Talleres youth academy and arrived at Boca Juniors in 2018. With the Buenos Aires-based club, Emanuel Reynoso appeared in 66 games.
He scored five goals, made eight assists, and won three titles. Reynoso eventually moved to Minnesota United Fc from Boca Juniors in September 2020 to continue his career in the United States. Since arriving with The Loons, he has played 77 games with 19 goals and 22 assists.
If Minnesota United FC wants to perform well in Leagues Cup, they'll need the best from Reynoso.
Bongokuhle Hlongwane, a lethal piece in the attack
The 23-year-old South African has established himself as a vital player in the attack for Minnesota United FC. Bongokuhle Hlongwane, a regular call-up for the South African national team, arrived at Minnesota United FC in January 2022 from Maritzburg United.
After a season of adaptation, Hlongwane already positioned himself as the squad's top scorer this season. If he continues playing at this level, it seems the sky is the limit for Hlongwane's potential and the forward could be the surprising piece to push Minnesota United FC into the knockout stage.
