Despite the result, Sunday’s home opener was a historic day and incredible sporting experience for the Minnesota United faithful. From the chorus of supporters to the winter wonderland that blanketed TCF Bank Stadium, it was an event that will not soon be forgotten. Here’s a look at some of the facts and figures that stood out on Sunday.
35,043 – Number of fans in attendance
A sellout crowd of raucous supporters came together at TCF Bank Stadium on Sunday afternoon, filling the lower bowl and extending well into the upper deck.
362 – Total passes from Minnesota
The conditions made moving the ball difficult for both sides, especially along the turf.
33 – Years since a larger crowd for Minnesota soccer
Sunday’s match had the largest crowd for Minnesota soccer since May 28, 1984. On that day, the Minnesota Strikers defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 1-0 at the Metrodome in front of 52,621 fans. The match was followed by a Beach Boys concert.
19 – Temperature in degrees Fahrenheit at the start of the match
The temperature was a big factor on Sunday, setting a record for the coldest match in MLS history. It beat the previous record-holder for coldest match — MLS Cup 2013 — by one degree.
5 – Number of yellow and red cards given out
Referee Ismail Elfath had a busy afternoon, calling 27 fouls and booking five players, three from Minnesota and two from Atlanta.
3.4 – Inches of snow that fell in the Twin Cities
As kickoff approached, flurries began around the stadium and before long, snow covered the pitch as the storm continued to build throughout the match. The winter conditions forced several breaks to clear the field lines during the match.