Minnesota United’s match against Nashville SC on Saturday promises to be more difficult on Friday afternoon.
At the time, head coach Cameron Knowles was out with captain center back Michael Boxall due to adductor injuries, and Nashville’s dynamic attack presented Minnesota with an even greater challenge as the defense was without its New Zealand veterans.
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Cristian Espinoza’s goal was sandwiched between two goals from Sam Surridge as Nashville won 3-1 at Geodis Park.
Minnesota (1-1-1, four points) suffered its first loss of the season, while Nashville (2-0-1, seven points) remained undefeated.
“Obviously you’re missing (Boxall), who has a lot of experience and consistent leadership and is an elite performer,” Knowles told reporters on a postgame video call. “From an injury standpoint, he hasn’t missed a game in I don’t know how long.
“It’s an opportunity for guys to step up. Overall, I don’t think you can blame it on missing Bochy. I think overall, our team’s defense hasn’t been up to the standard that we’ve seen so far this season.”
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Minnesota kept a clean sheet in last weekend’s 1-0 win over Cincinnati, but struggled in the season opener, conceding two goals in a 2-2 draw with Austin on Feb. 21.
The Loons started Devin Padelford in Boxall’s spot next to Morris Duggan in the back line, with the same fullbacks Anthony Markanich and Jefferson Diaz in front of Cincinnati’s winning goalkeeper Drake Callender.
“We just made some simple mistakes against a really good team, and when that happens, you get punished,” Knowles said.
Loons midfielder Nectar Triantis’ stunning 35-yard field goal was Minnesota’s only bright spot. Nashville cut the lead to 2-1 in the 35th minute.
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“It was an absolute screamer,” Knowles said.