GAME STORY: Minnesota United lose in MLS Western Conference semifinals to San Diego FC 1-0

SAN DIEGO — There are two ways you can look at Minnesota United’s 2025 season. On one hand, the team set a club record for points in a season and hosted a playoff round for the first time, in a full non-COVID season, since 2019.

The Loons beat Inter Miami. They beat San Diego. They beat Seattle — twice, plus twice more on penalty kicks in the playoffs. Their prowess from set pieces earned them worldwide recognition, and for the first time, it felt like the club had a distinct identity.

On the other hand, just like 2024, their season is over after the Western Conference semifinals. They again haven’t qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup, which was viewed somewhat as a potential consolation prize for the season. And once again, they haven’t required the construction of a trophy case at team headquarters.

A good season, but not a final destination.

Read more: Loons eliminated in Western Conference semifinals