united gameday

6 P.M. vs. Fort lauderdale • national sports Center stadium, Blaine • ch. 45

Preview: The Championship playoffs begin for Minnesota, one of the North American Soccer League's best teams all season. Called the Stars in 2011, Minnesota defeated For Lauderdale in a two-match, total-goal series for the title that season. The winner of Saturday's match advances to next Saturday's Soccer Bowl.

United FC at a glance: United has played 27 league matches, earned a modern NASL record 55 points, scored 47 goals and conceded just 28. But the Loons gained just five points from the past five matches. The team experimented with formation, worked to keep players healthy and avoid suspensions because of too many yellow cards. But the club is primed to regroup. "We've been preparing for this moment," coach Manny Lagos said. "I think the guys are focused and ready to step on the field to battle."

Fort Lauderdale at a glance: The Strikers have not dropped a point since Sept. 13 — a fantastic run of matches that secured a postseason appearance. Fort Lauderdale's last loss was to Minnesota. The Strikers scored 38 goals this season, tied for third in the NASL. But they have conceded 11 goals more than any other postseason team. "I am very proud of our team for the way they finished the season — however, no one in our club is satisfied with just qualifying for the Championship," coach Gunter Kronsteiner said.

DAVID LA VAQUE