The long-awaited moment has arrived for Minnesota United FC supporters. After securing a valuable point on the road in Austin to open the campaign, the Loons return to Allianz Field for a cross-conference showdown against FC Cincinnati. This Saturday, February 28, 2026, marks the official home opener, with gates opening at 2:00 p.m. and kickoff scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
Presented by the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, this occasion represents more than the pursuit of three points—it symbolizes a heartfelt reunion between the team and its passionate fanbase. The thunderous roar of supporters will create the electric atmosphere that has transformed Allianz Field into one of MLS's most intimidating venues.
Strategic Arrival Planning
The stadium gates open promptly at 2:00 p.m., providing a 90-minute window to explore enhanced concourse amenities and participate in time-sensitive promotions. With multiple giveaways and exclusive merchandise drops planned, early arrival is strongly recommended to maximize your matchday experience and avoid potential congestion.
Exclusive 10th Season Knit Hat Giveaway
Celebrating a milestone anniversary in Major League Soccer, Minnesota United is marking its 10th season with special promotions throughout the year. The centerpiece giveaway is a limited-edition knit hat for the first 10,000 fans to enter Allianz Field. This exclusive merchandise, courtesy of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, serves as both a stylish collectible and practical accessory for early-season Minnesota evenings. Given the limited availability, early arrival is essential to secure this piece of club history.
The Decade Kit: A Jersey Steeped in History
The club has unveiled The Decade Kit, a special jersey that weaves Minnesota United's 10-year MLS journey into its design. This isn't merely a uniform—it's a storytelling device honoring the club's evolution from expansion team to playoff contender. The Black and Blue colors are reimagined with subtle design elements referencing key milestones. Presented by Target, this kit is available now at the Black and Blue Team Store and online, allowing fans worldwide to participate in the anniversary celebration.
UNRL Partnership: Minnesota-Made Quality
The 2026 season introduces an exciting collaboration between MNUFC and UNRL, a Minnesota-born sportswear brand known for style, comfort, and versatility. This partnership brings the Hometown Collection to supporters, with merchandise drops at three points throughout the season. The first installment debuts exclusively at the Black and Blue Team Store in Section 27 for the home opener. With limited supplies, fans should visit the team store immediately upon entry to secure these premium items.
Culinary Experience: Maps, Menus, and Guest Chef
Allianz Field continues elevating its food offerings through an interactive menu map on the club's website, helping fans locate preferred concessions and check wait times. Premium ticket holders enjoy exclusive dining in the Field Club, Upper 90 Club, and Stadium Club, each featuring chef-curated dishes beyond traditional stadium fare.
Adding local flavor, EJ Williams from Two Mixed Up will serve creative combinations in Section 30. This guest chef appearance highlights the club's commitment to diverse, high-quality food experiences for all fans.
Signature Beverage: Black and Blue Margarita
Fans 21 and over can enjoy the Black and Blue Margarita, a specialty cocktail combining premium tequila, Blue Curacao, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. This visually striking drink, mirroring the team's colors, will be available at the Brew Hall and in premium club spaces throughout the venue.
Pregame Ceremony: Community Celebration
The pregame ceremony celebrates both team and community. Joe Okell will perform the national anthem, while the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University ROTC presents the colors. Several individuals will receive recognition: Renee Hamdorf as Allina Scoreboard Keeper of the Game, Stu Maxwell as SeatGeek Fan of the Game, Luna the 8-year-old rescue dog as NutriSource SuperStar, community members as Target L'Étoile du Nord honorees, Robert Erlandson of the Minnesota Army National Guard as Xcel Energy Eye of the Loon, and Finley's ambassador Ian delivering the game ball. These recognitions underscore MNUFC's deep community connection.
Community Impact: Pop It and Drop It
Through the Pop It and Drop It initiative, the club collects aluminum pop tabs from canned beverages. Specially marked bins throughout the stadium allow fans to contribute to Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Upper Midwest. This simple act demonstrates how collective small actions create significant community impact.
Essential Matchday Information
Consult the Matchday Quick Guide on MNUFC's official website for comprehensive information on parking, transportation, stadium policies, and FAQs. Tickets remain available across various price points, with advance purchase recommended to secure preferred seating.
The Home Opener Significance
An MLS home opener transcends a typical match—it represents a fresh start, renewed bonds between club and community, and establishment of home-field advantage. For Minnesota United, this coincides with the 10th anniversary celebration, adding deeper meaning to an already special occasion. The energy of 19,400 fans, many wearing the Decade Kit and commemorative hats, creates an atmosphere that intimidates opponents and inspires the home side.
Building Season Momentum
As FC Cincinnati visits for this cross-conference test, they face not just 11 players but an entire state united behind its team. The Loons compete for more than three points—they fight for supporter pride and early-season momentum. After demonstrating resilience in Austin, the home opener offers a chance to showcase attacking prowess before a supportive crowd.
Final Call to Action
This home opener converges celebration, competition, and community—defining what it means to support Minnesota United. The combination of exclusive promotions, community recognition, enhanced culinary offerings, and pure matchday joy creates an unreplicable atmosphere. Arrive early to secure your commemorative knit hat, explore the UNRL collection, sample specialty offerings, and bring your passion to support the Loons' quest for their first home victory. This is your home, your team, and your opportunity to show why Allianz Field stands among North America's premier soccer venues. The wait is over. The stage is set. The Loons are ready. Are you?