Pereyra's Double Powers Minnesota Past LAFC in BMO Stadium Upset

Pereyra Leads Visitor Surge

Joaquín Pereyra was the defining figure in a road victory that saw Minnesota United FC overcome LAFC 3-1 on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Playing as the visiting side at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California, the Minnesota side established early control through efficient attacking play. Pereyra opened the scoring in the 29th minute, breaking the deadlock to give the visitors an initial advantage.

His performance was not limited to a single strike; he demonstrated consistent threat throughout the match, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive momentum. This early lead set the tone for a disciplined away effort that ultimately secured three points for the club.

Valerius Extends Lead

Minnesota United FC capitalized on their early success, extending their advantage just five minutes later. In the 34th minute, Cherrion Valerius scored the second goal of the match, pushing the visitors to a two-goal lead. This rapid sequence of goals in the first half proved difficult for the home side to overcome.

LAFC struggled to find a consistent rhythm against the organized Minnesota defense, allowing the visitors to maintain pressure. The two-goal cushion provided a significant buffer for Minnesota as they entered the break, having effectively controlled the tempo of the first-half action.

The efficiency of the Minnesota attack was evident, as they converted chances into goals with precision, leaving the home crowd with little to celebrate during the opening 45 minutes.

Late Drama and Final Result

The second half brought a brief moment of hope for LAFC, but it was not enough to alter the final outcome. In the 81st minute, Joaquín Pereyra completed his brace, scoring the third goal for Minnesota United FC. This strike effectively sealed the victory for the visitors, demonstrating their resilience and depth.

LAFC responded in the 89th minute when Sergio Vasquez scored the team's lone goal of the match. Although the late strike reduced the deficit, it was too little, too late to change the result. The game concluded with Minnesota United FC securing a 3-1 victory.

There were exactly four goals recorded in the match, with no additional scoring events occurring in the final moments of play.

Post-Match Statistics

The statistical lines reflect the dominance of the visitors' attack alongside solid defensive efforts. For LAFC, Sergi Palencia registered three total shots, representing the team's primary offensive output. On the Minnesota side, Joaquín Pereyra recorded two total shots, both of which resulted in goals.

Goalkeeper Drake Callender was instrumental in preserving the lead, making six saves to deny LAFC additional opportunities. Following this result, LAFC holds a record of 12 wins, 11 losses, and 10 draws. Minnesota United FC finishes the match with a record of 10 wins, 11 losses, and 12 draws.

The match was played at BMO Stadium, with the final score standing as Minnesota United FC 3, LAFC 1.

Sources

ESPN