Minnesota United forward Kelvin Yeboah displayed resilience and faith during Saturday’s season opener at Q2 Stadium, scoring a crucial late goal to secure a 2-2 draw against Austin FC. Bearing a Bible verse from Matthew 7:7 on his hand tape—
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you”
—Yeboah’s goal symbolized a fresh start after a challenging finish to his 2025 season.
After failing to score in his final 14 matches last year and struggling through a September hamstring injury that limited his playtime and effectiveness in the MLS Cup Playoffs, Yeboah came back healthy for preseason and demonstrated a renewed commitment, culminating in his 90th-minute equalizer against Austin FC.
Impressive Opener Showcases Yeboah’s Growth and Composure
During the opener, Yeboah showed sharpness with three total attempts on goal, including a near score before halftime. His powerful attempt was expertly denied by Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver, leaving Yeboah visibly surprised by the save.
“It was crazy in a sense, I didn’t expect him to get there. I see (Anthony Markanich) heading the ball, (I) chest it and (with my) right foot try to aim for the corner as close as possible. He stretches and it was a really good save.”
?Kelvin Yeboah, Forward
His perseverance paid off late as Devin Padelford, a versatile left-sided player who earned his spot over Nico Romero, provided a quality cross that Yeboah converted to level the match for the Loons.
“We were working hard toward that,”
Yeboah said after the game.
This verse for me — my faith helps me a lot to keep on pushing.”
?Kelvin Yeboah, Forward
Coaching Staff Praises Yeboah’s Commitment and Team Dynamics
Head coach Cameron Knowles highlighted Yeboah’s motivation since preseason began in January, emphasizing the player’s professionalism and high personal standards.
“He has been excellent. He came into the start of preseason from Day 1 highly motivated. He is a guy who has really high standards for himself and incredible professionalism — always wanting to do extra.”
?Cameron Knowles, Head Coach
Knowles also explained roster decisions that left defender Nico Romero out of the 20-player matchday selection, noting both the competitive depth in the position and the coaching staff’s desire to diversify bench options. Rookie defender Morris Duggan edged Romero for the starting role in preseason, while the staff aimed to balance attackers and defenders among substitutes.
“Nico is a very good player that has tremendous upside, so to have two guys that can really start on any team in the league at that position is a real blessing,”
Knowles said.
“Now the difficult thing is when we looked at the balance of the squad and wanting to get an attacker on the … bench.”
?Cameron Knowles, Head Coach
Promising Debut for Young Talent Troy Putt
The game marked the MLS debut for 19-year-old forward Troy Putt, who joined the roster on a short-term loan. The New Zealand native, who impressed at the Under-20 FIFA World Cup last summer, attracted attention throughout the six-week preseason for his outstanding fitness and relentless work rate, including winning the team’s beep fitness test.
“His effort, his work rate has been exceptional,”
Knowles praised.
“… He has trained with a relentless work ethic since. When we were looking at it in the balance of the squad and what we might need, he’s a good young player. He has real elite, top-end pace. He has elite ability to work and cover ground.”
?Cameron Knowles, Head Coach
During his brief four-minute appearance, Putt actively disrupted opposition plays and later shared in the jubilation of Yeboah’s goal, showcasing the potential boost he could provide moving forward.
Additional Team Context and Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Minnesota United will host FC Cincinnati in their home opener this coming Saturday. Cincinnati’s squad recently suffered a setback when their key midfielder Evander sustained an apparent hamstring injury during the season opener, though they still managed a 2-0 victory over Atlanta United.
The Loons continue to evaluate their roster, particularly the backup options behind Yeboah. Former Minnesota striker Christian Ramirez, recently waived by LA Galaxy, is reportedly not being pursued to strengthen the forward depth. Devin Padelford’s versatility played a role in securing his place, as demonstrated by his assist on Yeboah’s late equalizer.
The Significance of Yeboah’s Goal and What Lies Ahead
Kelvin Yeboah’s late goal not only salvaged a valuable point for Minnesota United but also marked a turning point after a difficult previous season. His use of faith to fuel perseverance resonates with the team’s wider aspirations, while emerging talents like Troy Putt suggest a vibrant future. As the Loons confront ongoing roster challenges and prepare for critical home matches, Yeboah’s example of determination underlines the importance of resilience in their 2026 campaign.
