St. Louis CITY2 emerged as the MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchday 27 after an electrifying performance that sealed their spot in the 2023 playoffs. The reigning Western Conference champions dazzled a record-breaking crowd of 9,626 fans en route to a 4-1 victory, setting a new MLS NEXT Pro attendance record. This is the second time this season that St Louis CITY2 has won the Team of the Matchday award, first earning the accolade during Matchday 20.
From the outset, CITY2 flexed their offensive muscle, taking the lead just eight minutes into the game. Ezra Armstrong connected with a pinpoint pass to Wan Kuzain, who slotted home CITY2’s first of the night and his fifth goal of the season.
Armstrong continued his great play, providing another assist in the first half, this time to Caden Glover in the 28th minute. The first ever homegrown player for St. Louis CITY increased his goal-scoring total this season to seven after his goal against LA Galaxy II.
In the 33rd minute, Buddy Murphy’s squad extended their lead to 3-0 when midfielder Faysal Bettache unleashed a powerful volley that hit off the crossbar, struck the Galaxy II goalkeeper Simon Jillson, and bounced past the goal line for an own goal.
After the break, Wan Kuzain took part in another CITY2 goal, this time delivering an excellent pass to John Klein, who bicycle-kicked the ball into the net, earning his 13th goal of the season.
LA Galaxy II’s Aaron Bibout knocked one in for the visitors in the 75th minute but ultimately CITY2 would cruise to 4-1 victory at CITYPARK.
This victory over Galaxy II marked the fifth consecutive victory for CITY2, helping them climb to fifth place in the Western Conference.
St Louis CITY2 will now gear up for the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Decision Day when they play against SKC II on Sunday, September 24.
You can catch all the MLS NEXT Pro action on MLS season Pass.
