US OPEN CUP: Michigan Stars outlast Minnesota United FC-2 to advance to third round

BY DAN STICKRADT

Communications Specialist | Web And Content Editor | Director of News |

Social Media Director | Interns and Freelance Coordinator

E: stickradt@michigansoccernetwork.com

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ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Michigan Stars are moving on and they had to work some overtime to do it.

The Stars also had to defeat a side from a higher league on the U.S. Soccer pyramid that boasted a roster filled with current MLS and MLS Academy players who suited up for the game.

Finally in overtime, the Michigan Stars netted two late goals in overtime to down host Minnesota United FC2 2-0 in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup tournament at Allianz Field to advance to the third round.

Minnesota United FC-2 dominated, posting a 23-9 shot advantage in the contest, including 5-3 with shots on frame. The Loons also held a 7-5 edge on cornerkicks and even held possession for 65 percent of the contest.

It didn’t matter.

Michigan Stars, who play in the NISA (National Independent Soccer Association), simply pulled a rank on Minnesota United FC-2, which plays in the Group B of the MLS Next Pro league.

Michigan Stars center back Sacko Konate headed home the eventual game-winner in the 100th minute. Seven minutes later the Stars notched an insurance tally, as Hunter Olson put the game away in the 107th minute.

Tatenda Mkuruva notched the shutout between the pipes, recording five saves for the clean sheet.

Clint Erwin made just one save in net for the Loons.

The Stars' next opponent, along with date time and location will be announced in a few days.

(Have a story suggestion for the Premier Media Group and the Michigan Soccer Network regarding club soccer, high school varsity, amateur soccer, collegiate soccer or professional soccer of teams or players with Michigan ties, contact Communications Specialist/Web and Content Editor/Director of News Dan Stickradt via email at stickradt@michigansoccernetwork.com, or call 248-884-1051. Dan Stickradt is a 31-year veteran of the Michigan Media circles and recently joined the staff full time in March of 2024. Want to schedule a broadcast game or live show, contact PMG/MSN Director of Broadcasting Jonathan Turner for availability and pricing at jonathan@michigansoccernetwork.com.)