MLS 2019: Minnesota United vs LA Galaxy – tactical analysis

It was the first-ever MLS playoff match at Allianz Field when Minnesota United hosted LA Galaxy last weekend. The Loons, after finishing 10th in the Western Conference last season, managed to climb six spots up the table to finish fourth in 2019. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, especially since the home team’s tactics seemed to be working brilliantly.

Minnesota United dominated the first half, creating chance after chance. Their lack of ruthlessness in front of the net, however, cost them when LA Galaxy scored two goals in four minutes in the second half. Minnesota brought it back to one goal late into the game, but it was too little too late. Find out why Minnesota United’s tactics deservedfirst 45 minutes, LA Galaxy were relieved to make it to halftime without conceding. Minnesota United had created chance after chance, but an opening goal continued to allude them. It was more than just luck, however, that presented Minnesota with so many chances. The team’s tactics were obvious; target the flanks and penetrate LA Galaxy with balls from wide areas.

Despite one of their earliest chances coming from the left side of the field, Minnesota targeted the right side of the field for a majority of the match. In fact, 50% of their attacks came down the left side of the field. Only 23% came from the left, while 28% came from central areas. Their eventual goal came after a good passage of play down the right side.

During the