It was a busy weekend on the road for all levels at Minnesota United. While the first team battled it out in Nashville and MNUFC2 spent time in St. Louis, the Academy sides traveled down to Chicago over the weekend to duke it out in the rain, and while the U18s came up just short, the U16s found a decisive victory.

U18s

Chicago Fire 2 - Minnesota United 1

Alex Morawiecki’s U18s started the match off with high energy and strong possession, but went down 1-0 early off a direct free kick. Chicago doubled down only minutes later on a counter attack. Ahead of the half, Irvin Hernandez netted a goal off a ball from Jadan Bernard, putting the young Loons on the scoreboard before the whistle. 

The visitors carried large spells of possession in the second half, but weren’t able to convert to find the equalizer. Still, the 18s saw significant improvement from last week’s matchup in Columbus. Alex Witte brought a composed, level head and dominated in possession. Hernandez, on top of being the sole scorer, was relentless in the press and also excelled in smart movement off the ball. Bernard showcased immense energy down the left flank with impeccable attention to detail. Despite the end result, Morawiecki’s guys showed progress that they can continue to build on next weekend in Cincinnati.

U16s

Chicago Fire 1 - Minnesota United 3

Jamie Carroll-Rolfe’s U16s put in a dominant team performance, defending and attacking well while managing space across the pitch despite the difficult weather conditions. Donatien Nzambimana was undoubtedly the star of the match, netting all three of the Loons’ goals and proving a constant threat on all fronts. Collin Barnes adapted well to the center back role he was asked to slip into for the day, showing himself strong in 1v1s, demonstrating great leadership, and progressing the ball throughout. Sam Roseblade was also stalwart on defense, always attentive to Chicago’s next moves.

U15s

Chicago Fire 3 - Minnesota United 1

Amin Qasim’s U15s started the game off well, finding space behind the opponent and matching them man-for-man in the midfield. Adrian Kibaya stepped up defensively to hold down the line. Lorenzo Uribe Jr. was dangerous pushing forward, and Minnesota was able to win the ball in Chicago’s half to create dangerous chances in the first half despite a lack of conversion. In the second half, Minnesota lost the ball in transition and Chicago netted the first goal. The home side scored again shortly after, but Minnesota’s Nikita Bulychov responded on a set piece. In the end, it was a matter of which team could sustain the momentum, and Chicago was better able to capitalize on their chances. 

All three Academy sides are headed to Ohio to take on FC Cincinnati’s Academy on Saturday, March 14.