It’s that time again: Time to play international soccer, that is! Most of the league is hitting pause this weekend, as nations across the globe shift their focus toward World Cup Qualifiers — or friendlies, for those with a spot already confirmed. We’ve got several of your Loons heading out for big games, with a total of eight players from the club joining their respective youth or senior teams for this window. While they won’t be getting the same kind of rest that their teammates are getting during their week off, they’ll be playing in intense environments, giving them the perfect preparation for the pressure and demands of playoff soccer. 

In other news, the Twos have officially qualified for the postseason for the first time, with a showdown against the Real Monarchs waiting for them in the first round of the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs. With a host of Academy players filling out the roster for much of the year, this has proven to be a year of resilience and perseverance for Minnesota United’s second team, and they’ll be hoping to show that spirit in the coming weeks. Go MNUFC(2)!

Your Loons are riding some very positive momentum off the back of that huge 3-0 win against SKC, a match in which they showcased a slight adjustment to their playing style that produced some truly exciting attacking play. Coach Ramsay and the boys will have an extra week to perfect this shift ahead of the regular-season finale, a Decision Day duel with the LA Galaxy. 

While you’re waiting for MLS to return, make the most of the daylight we’ve got (before it’s gone!) and don’t miss any of the international action that’s on the way. This fall’s got a touch of FIFA to it, and if you ask me, that makes it more bearable.