Sam Surridge scored twice again in Nashville SC’s 3-1 home win against Minnesota United on Saturday, marking his second brace of the season. His outstanding form has given Nashville an early offensive boost as they now hold seven points through three games.
Supporting Efforts from Espinoza and Yazbek Boost Nashville
Cristian Espinoza contributed both a goal and an assist, while Patrick Yazbek assisted twice to help maintain Nashville’s dominance throughout the match. Surridge’s four goals have come in just two games this season after missing the previous match due to illness.
Triantis Responds for Minnesota with Impressive Solo Goal
Minnesota United’s only goal came from Nectarios Triantis in the 35th minute, when he carried the ball from midfield and struck a precise shot into the upper left corner. Despite Triantis’s skillful effort, Minnesota (1-1-1) was unable to mount a sustained comeback.
First Half Control and Decisive Finishing by Nashville
Nashville (2-0-1) dominated the early stages with 66% possession and a significant shot advantage of 12 to 4. The opener came in the 26th minute after Hany Mukhtar’s clever back-heel pass allowed Yazbek’s shot to be redirected by Surridge into goal. Shortly after, Espinoza capitalized on a rebound from a saved Mukhtar attempt to extend the lead.
Surridge Restores Two-Goal Lead Just After Half
Following halftime, Surridge again found the net two minutes in, thanks to another assist from Yazbek. His timely finish in close range helped Nashville regain control and set the tone for the rest of the match.
Nashville Holds Firm Despite Minnesota’s Second-Half Pressure
Although Minnesota outshot Nashville 10-4 after the break, they failed to convert any chances. Kelvin Yeboah’s header in the 83rd minute narrowly missed the target, leaving Nashville able to protect their lead until the final whistle.
Match Implications and Next Steps
This win improves Nashville’s standing early in the MLS season and highlights Sam Surridge’s vital role in their attack. Minnesota will look to build on Triantis’s promising goal as they seek to earn victories in upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, Nashville’s ability to withstand second-half pressure demonstrates their growing resilience as a team.
