SKC edge Quakes on PKs after scoreless draw

Daniel Salloi led Sporting Kansas City to a 4-2 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes in the Western Conference wild-card match. The match ended in a scoreless draw after 90 minutes of intense play on Wednesday at Kansas City, Ken.

In the penalty shootout, Sporting’s Johnny Russell, Erik Thommy, Gadi Kinda, and Daniel Salloi all converted their spot-kicks. However, San Jose goalkeeper Daniel made a crucial save against Alan Pulido in the second round.

Sporting KC goalkeeper Tim Melia, known for his penalty-saving skills, denied Cristian Espinoza’s penalty kick in the shootout’s opening round. San Jose’s Jackson Yueill missed his attempt in the second round, while Jack Skahan and Carlos Akapo successfully converted their penalties.

With this victory, Sporting Kansas City advances to face St. Louis City in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs. The series will be a best-of-three, with the first match taking place on Sunday evening in St. Louis.

In a match that started slow, both teams picked up the pace in the second half. San Jose had their best opportunity in the 66th minute when Cade Cowell’s shot was deflected by Sporting KC defender Andreu Fontas. Cowell had another chance in the 70th minute, but his shot was saved by Tim Melia.

Sporting KC almost broke the deadlock in the 79th minute when Johnny Russell’s free-kick struck the post. The match continued into extra time, but neither team could find a breakthrough.

Throughout the match, Sporting KC dominated possession and shots. They had two early shots deflected for corner kicks and ended the first half with seven shots, while San Jose failed to register a single shot on goal.

—Field Level Media