Kelvin Yeboah scores brace despite Minnesota's MLS Playoff exit
26th November 2024
Ghanaian-born Italian forward Kelvin Yeboah concluded a standout debut MLS season with a brace for Minnesota United, although his side suffered a heavy 6-2 defeat to LA Galaxy in the Western Conference semi-finals on Sunday evening.
Yeboah, who joined Minnesota mid-season in July 2024, quickly made an impact, scoring seven goals in nine regular-season matches to secure his team's playoff spot.
However, their postseason aspirations ended at Dignity Health Sports Park against the five-time MLS champions.
The match began explosively, with LA Galaxy's Gabriel Pec finding the net in the opening minute. Yeboah responded swiftly with a stunning equalizer just five minutes later.
The Galaxy restored their lead through Dejan Joveljić, capitalizing on a pinpoint Marco Reus cross, before Ghanaian forward Joseph Paintsil added another.
Undeterred, Yeboah kept Minnesota’s hopes alive, converting a penalty on the stroke of halftime to narrow the gap to 3-2.
However, the second half belonged to the Galaxy, with Pec, Paintsil, and Joveljić extending their lead to seal a commanding victory.
Yeboah's performances throughout the season showcased his incredible talent and determination, providing Minnesota fans with optimism for the future despite the bitter playoff defeat.