Vlora FC went into their very highly anticipated match on Monday with high hopes. They would host Minneapolis City SC for the second time this season, but this time with even more at stake. The two teams were the top two seeds coming into the UPSL Midwest West Division playoffs, both being undefeated. It would be a very back forth match with the opposing squad controlling possession in the first 30 minutes of play and then Vlora dominating for much of the second half. As full time approached you could see the game sort of balance out as visibly fatigue began to set in for both teams. The visitors would create a promising chance in the closing minutes of full time sending one opportunity just barely over the crossbar.
Moving into extra time Vlora for sure thought they would go up on a few chances created inside the 18 yard box, but Minneapolis City SC keeper would do just enough to keep the ball out of the net and Vlora off of the scoreboard. The match would come down to penalties where Minneapolis City SC keeper would come up big with save on Vlora’s second attempt. Vlora keeper Vaclav Hasenohrl would get his hands on the third attempt but it would not be enough to keep it out and Minneapolis City would make all 5 of their kicks to win and move on to the UPSL National Playoffs. The loss at home would also bring Vlora’s season to an end. Not the ending they would have hoped for but a promising season nonetheless and a hopeful sign that this club his headed in the right direction.
Midwest West Division Playoffs
| Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis City SC | St. Croix SC | |
June 25, 2023  3-0  Edor Nelson Field Recap | June 25, 2023  7:00 pm  Sillwater Area High School | |
July 1, 2023 7:00 pm | ||
| Vlora FC | Superior City FC |
