Match Report: Minneapolis City SC 3-1 RKC Third Coast

Date: June 25, 2026
Competition: USL League Two
Venue: Edor Nelson Field, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis City SC kicked off their 2026 USL League Two campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating RKC Third Coast 3-1 at Edor Nelson Field. A dominant second-half performance, coupled with clinical finishing, ensured the home side collected all three points in front of a vocal support.

First Half: Even Contest, Early Breakthrough

The opening 45 minutes saw both teams feeling each other out on a warm June evening. RKC Third Coast, making their league debut, showed early defensive discipline and created a handful of counter-attacking opportunities. However, it was Minneapolis who struck first. In the 22nd minute, a well-worked corner routine saw central defender Marcus Holt rise highest to head the ball into the bottom corner, giving the home side a 1-0 lead.

RKC responded well and equalized just before halftime. A defensive lapse from Minneapolis allowed forward Elijah Torres to pounce on a loose ball inside the box and slot home from close range. The scoreline read 1-1 at the break, with the visitors feeling buoyant.

Second Half: Minneapolis Takes Control

Minneapolis City SC came out with renewed energy after the interval. The introduction of substitute Benito Vargas on the left wing added pace and width, stretching the RKC defense. In the 58th minute, Vargas delivered a pinpoint cross that found striker Andre Kim, who controlled and fired past the goalkeeper to restore Minneapolis's lead.

The home side continued to press, and their persistence paid off again in the 74th minute. A clever through ball from midfielder Samir Patel split the RKC backline, allowing Liam O'Sullivan to race through and calmly finish for 3-1. RKC could not find a response, and Minneapolis closed out the game comfortably.

Key Performances

• Andre Kim (Minneapolis City SC) – Scored the crucial second goal and led the line tirelessly.
• Samir Patel (Minneapolis City SC) – Controlled the midfield and provided the assist for the third goal.
• Elijah Torres (RKC Third Coast) – The visitors' standout player, scoring the equalizer and causing problems all night.

Match Impact

Minneapolis City SC's victory places them among the early pace-setters in the USL League Two standings. For RKC Third Coast, despite the loss, there were promising signs in their first competitive outing. Head coach Mike Reynolds will hope to tighten up defensively ahead of their next match.

The win marks a strong start for Minneapolis in their quest to return to the playoffs, where they have been regular contenders in recent seasons.