Super Eagles midfielder Alhassan Yusuf delivered an impressive performance to help New England Revolution secure a 2-1 victory over Minnesota United, Soccernet.ng reports.
Carles Gil handed the hosts an early lead after a bright start to the encounter, but Kelvin Yeboah restored parity for the visitors before halftime. However, Luca Langoni struck what proved to be the winning goal early in the second half as New England Revolution climbed back to second place in the Eastern Conference standings.
New England Revolution vs Minnesota: What happened?
New England Revolution had set a new club record for the most consecutive home wins to start a season after their 2-1 victory over Philadelphia Union last weekend. However, they suffered a 3-0 defeat to Nashville in midweek, ending their unbeaten run in the league that stretched back to March.
Alhassan Yusuf started once again in midfield as the Revs looked to return to winning ways and strengthen their push for a playoff spot after missing out in each of the last two seasons.
The hosts made a perfect start after they were awarded a penalty following a VAR review, with captain Carles Gil calmly converting from the spot to put them ahead. Minnesota United gradually settled into the game and were also awarded a penalty, which Ghana-born forward Kelvin Yeboah converted to level the score before the break.
Just like in the opening half, New England Revolution began the second period brightly and needed only four minutes to regain the lead through Luca Langoni.
Despite a late barrage of attacks from Minnesota United, the hosts held firm as goalkeeper Matt Turner produced a series of excellent saves to preserve the victory.
The result marked New England Revolution’s eighth win of the season and their seventh home victory, moving them to within two points of Nashville SC in the Eastern Conference standings, although they have played a game more.
New England Revolution will next face Charlotte away from home next weekend before Major League Soccer pauses briefly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Super Eagles player ratings: Alhassan Yusuf delivers commanding midfield display
Super Eagles midfielder Alhassan Yusuf made his 13th appearance of the season for New England Revolution and once again completed the full 90 minutes.
Unlike in the midweek defeat, where he operated in a more advanced role, the 25-year-old played in his preferred deeper midfield position and produced a commanding display for the home side.
The Nigerian midfielder completed 91% of his passes and recorded 10 accurate long balls during the match. Yusuf also won four duels, made five defensive contributions and completed four passes into the final third.
His all-round performance earned him a 7.3 rating on Sofascore, one of the highest ratings recorded in the match.
Unity Cup watch: Will Alhassan Yusuf make Nigeria’s squad?
The Super Eagles are preparing to defend the Unity Cup later this month, with head coach Eric Chelle expected to announce his squad soon.
The Nigerian coach has already hinted that several regular players could be rested, creating opportunities for fringe players and fresh faces to shine and Yusuf could benefit from this opportunity.
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The 25-year-old has been in outstanding form for New England Revolution this season and his experience at international level could give him an advantage if Chelle decides to combine fresh faces with established players.
Yusuf has already made eight appearances for Nigeria, although his last invitation came during the CAF playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in November, where he remained an unused substitute. However, his recent performances suggest he could be in line for a call-up.
