James Rodríguez makes first Minnesota start but misses penalty drama

James Rodríguez is back. After two weeks out due to the severe dehydration he suffered while on international duty with Colombia, which led to a hospital stay, the Colombian midfielder got back on the field for Minnesota United, this time in the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup round of 32.

The midfielder, who had logged just 39 minutes across two MLS games, made his first start for the Loons in a 0-0 draw against Sacramento Republic FC – a USL Championship side – at Heart Health Park.

James Rodríguez played 67 minutes before head coach Cameron Knowles decided to take him off. Argentina’s Joaquín Pereyra came on in his place. Although the St. Paul side controlled possession and created the better chances in attack, it was not enough to break the deadlock.

In the 80th minute, Colombian defender Jefferson Díaz also came on for the visitors, replacing German defender Morris Duggan. The game went to extra time – with winger Mauricio González entering in the 100th minute – and was ultimately decided in a penalty shootout.

Minnesota advanced 9-8 after 24 penalties. Next up in the round of 16 will be the winner of the matchup between the San Jose Earthquakes and Phoenix Rising FC.

James Rodríguez’s next challenge with Minnesota United will come this Saturday, April 18, at 8:30 p.m. ET, when the club hosts the Portland Timbers at Allianz Field in another MLS game.

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