EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN - Kansas City extended their winning streak to five matches with a convincing 2-0 victory over Michigan State on Sunday afternoon. The Roos (9-2-4) continued their impressive road form while handing the Spartans (5-7-2) their second straight loss.
Raphael Kistmann provided the breakthrough for Kansas City in the 49th minute, finishing clinically off an assist from Timothy Ospina. The Roos doubled their advantage in the 61st minute through an own goal by Michigan State, effectively sealing the result.
The first half saw both teams create opportunities, with Kansas City's Jeremy Francou testing the Spartans' defense with a blocked shot in the 12th minute. Michigan State's Miles Merritt responded with two dangerous attempts, including a close-range effort in the 20th minute that sailed high. The visitors maintained pressure through Miguel Fernandez and Ales Kohoutek, who both recorded shots before the break.
Kansas City's tactical adjustments proved decisive after halftime. Wade Muttitt's increased presence in midfield helped control the tempo, while Kistmann's goal early in the second period shifted momentum firmly in the Roos' favor. Michigan State's Richie Ludwig attempted to rally his side, but received a yellow card in the 74th minute for an aggressive challenge, reflecting the Spartans' growing frustration.
The match statistics highlighted Kansas City's superiority, as they outshot Michigan State 10-8, placing three attempts on target compared to the Spartans' two. The Roos also held a slight edge in corner kicks (4-3). The physical nature of the contest was evident in the card count, with Michigan State receiving three yellows (Colin Arce, Ludwig, and Brandon Munson) while Kansas City's Miguel Fernandez and Jeremy Francou were also cautioned.
Kistmann's performance stood out for Kansas City, with his goal proving the difference-maker. Defensively, the Roos' backline, anchored by Mathias Baucher and Elie Kisoka, maintained their composure throughout. For Michigan State, Miles Merritt showed flashes of brilliance with multiple shot attempts, while Luke Spadafora worked tirelessly in midfield despite the losing effort.
Kansas City's tactical approach emphasized quick transitions and efficient ball movement, particularly evident in their second-half performance. Michigan State struggled to adapt, with head coach's substitutions, including the introduction of Kayden Hudson and Oscar Huerta late in the match, unable to change the game's trajectory.
The victory reinforces Kansas City's strong position in the conference standings, having now won five straight matches while conceding just one goal during that stretch. For Michigan State, the loss continues a challenging period that has seen them win just once in their last six outings.
Looking ahead, Kansas City will aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to face Massachusetts on November 1. Michigan State looks to rebound in their next match, a crucial conference clash at Rutgers on October 31. The Spartans will need to address their offensive struggles, having been shut out in two consecutive matches.