We’re tracking former Loons who could potentially play in seven matches this week in South America, Europe, and the Middle East.
From the intense heat of the Paraguayan summer, to a crucial midweek clash in Scotland, to domestic cup action in Argentina, here is your schedule for tracking Minnesota United alumni in competitive matches from Monday through Thursday.
Monday, Feb. 2
Amarilla looks to spearhead Cerro Porteño attack against Luqueño
Luis Amarilla continues his journey with Paraguayan giants Cerro Porteño as they look to maintain their push near the top of the Apertura standings. “Totín” has been a consistent presence in the starting XI since his return to his home country, and his aerial prowess remains a primary weapon for El Ciclón. This home fixture is a vital opportunity for Amarilla to add to his goal tally against a Luqueño side that has struggled for defensive consistency early in the campaign.
- Teams: Cerro Porteño vs. Sportivo Luqueño (Paraguayan Primera División, Apertura)
- Date and time: Monday, Feb. 2, 5:15 p.m. CST
- Location: Asunción, Paraguay (Estadio General Pablo Rojas)
- Former Loon: Luis Amarilla
- How to watch: Tigo Sports (International) or Fanatiz
Fragapane leads Unión into Copa Argentina Round of 64
Franco Fragapane is back where it all began at Unión Santa Fe, serving as the creative heartbeat of the midfield. This cup tie represents a high-stakes “win-or-go-home” scenario against lower-division opposition. Fragapane’s work rate and ability to find the final pass will be essential for the top-flight side as they look to avoid a dramatic upset and progress deep into the tournament—a competition Fragapane has historically excelled in during his time in Argentina.
- Teams: Unión Santa Fe vs. Gimnasia Mendoza (Copa Argentina, Round of 64)
- Date and time: Monday, Feb. 2, 7:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Santa Fe, Argentina (Estadio 15 de Abril)
- Former Loon: Franco Fragapane
- How to watch: TyC Sports Internacional
Tuesday, Feb. 3
Calvo anchors Al-Ettifaq defense in Saudi Pro League clash
Francisco Calvo has quickly become an indispensable part of Steven Gerrard’s backline in Dammam. Following a difficult defensive outing last week, Calvo will be tasked with organizing the defense against an Al-Taawoun side known for its clinical counter-attacking style. The Costa Rican international remains a significant threat on offensive set pieces, and his veteran leadership will be the key to Al-Ettifaq securing a clean sheet and climbing the Pro League table.
- Teams: Al-Ettifaq vs. Al-Taawoun (Saudi Pro League)
- Date and time: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 11:30 a.m. CST
- Location: Dammam, Saudi Arabia (Al-Ettifaq Club Stadium)
- Former Loon: Francisco Calvo
- How to watch: FOX Sports (FS2 or Fox Soccer Plus) / DAZN
Ábila and Estudiantes de Río Cuarto hunt for cup upset against Banfield
Ramón “Wanchope” Ábila is now leading the line for Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, and he faces a massive test against top-flight Banfield in the Copa Argentina. The veteran striker thrives in these knockout environments where his physicality and legendary poaching instincts can turn a game on its head. For fans of “Wanchope,” this is a classic opportunity to see if the striker can bully a Primera División defense and lead his side to a famous “giant-killing” victory.
- Teams: Banfield vs. Estudiantes de Río Cuarto (Copa Argentina, Round of 64)
- Date and time: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 4:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Banfield, Argentina (Estadio Florencio Sola)
- Former Loon: Ramón Ábila
- How to watch: TyC Sports Internacional
Wednesday, Feb. 4
Nicholson aims for starting role as Motherwell travels to Dundee
After a successful recovery from injury and a brief cameo over the weekend, Sam Nicholson is now in contention for a place in the starting lineup. Motherwell currently sits in a strong 4th position in the Scottish Premiership, and Nicholson’s pace on the wing offers a dynamic threat that manager Stuart Kettlewell will be eager to utilize from the whistle. A win in Dundee would solidify Motherwell’s position as a serious contender for European qualification.
- Teams: Dundee FC vs. Motherwell (Scottish Premiership)
- Date and time: Wednesday, Feb. 4, 1:45 p.m. CST
- Location: Dundee, Scotland (Dens Park)
- Former Loon: Sam Nicholson
- How to watch: Paramount+ / Motherwell TV (International)
Benítez and Internacional face legendary Maracanã test against Flamengo
Alan Benítez is now plying his trade with Internacional, and a trip to face Flamengo at the Maracanã is perhaps the biggest stage in Brazilian football. While Benítez has often featured as a defensive rotation option, his experience on the right flank will be vital if he is called upon to contain Flamengo’s world-class wingers. This high-profile clash is more than just a state league match; it is a battle for prestige between two of the continent’s most decorated clubs.
- Teams: Flamengo vs. Internacional (Campeonato Carioca / Friendly)
- Date and time: Wednesday, Feb. 4, 4:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Maracanã Stadium)
- Former Loon: Alan Benítez
- How to watch: Fanatiz / Globo International
Thursday, Feb. 5
Quintero spearheads Millonarios attack against former club Pereira
Darwin Quintero is now the creative engine for Millonarios, and this Thursday he faces a reunion with Deportivo Pereira—the club where he spent much of 2024. Despite his veteran status, the “Scientist of Goal” continues to dictate the tempo of matches with his elite vision. Playing at the high altitude of Bogotá, Quintero will look to exploit his knowledge of his former teammates to keep Millonarios at the top of the Liga BetPlay standings.
- Teams: Millonarios vs. Deportivo Pereira (Liga BetPlay Dimayor, Apertura)
- Date and time: Thursday, Feb. 5, 7:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Bogotá, Colombia (Estadio El Campín)
- Former Loon: Darwin Quintero
- How to watch: ViX+ / Fanatiz
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