Minnesota United vs. FC Cincinnati: Keys to the Match, Projected Starting XI, and a Prediction

Keys to the Match

Minnesota United will host FC Cincinnati at Allianz Field on Saturday night in a match that could have major implications for both teams' playoff hopes. Here are three keys to the match:

**Set pieces:** Minnesota United has been one of the most dangerous teams in MLS from set pieces this season, scoring 11 goals from dead-ball situations. FC Cincinnati, on the other hand, has been one of the worst teams in MLS at defending set pieces, conceding 10 goals from dead-ball situations.

**Midfield battle:** The midfield battle will likely be key in determining who wins this match. Minnesota United has a strong midfield led by Wil Trapp, Emanuel Reynoso, and Robin Lod. FC Cincinnati has a good midfield led by Luciano Acosta and Haris Medunjanin.

**Home-field advantage:** Minnesota United has been very good at home this season, winning seven of their 10 matches at Allianz Field. FC Cincinnati has been poor on the road this season, winning just one of their 10 away matches.

Projected Starting XI

**Minnesota United:** Dayne St. Clair; Romain Metanire, Bakaye Dibassy, Michael Boxall, Chase Gasper; Wil Trapp, Emanuel Reynoso, Robin Lod; Franco Fragapane, Luis Amarilla, Adrien Hunou **FC Cincinnati:** Kenneth Vermeer; Alvas Powell, Nick Hagglund, Geoff Cameron, Ronald Matarrita; Haris Medunjanin, Luciano Acosta, Yuya Kubo; Brenner, Brandon Vazquez, Sergio Santos

Prediction

Minnesota United is the clear favorite in this match. They are the better team on paper, they have a strong home-field advantage, and they are in better form than FC Cincinnati. I predict that Minnesota United will win this match 2-0.