Coronavirus In Minnesota: Loons Opener Nixed As MLS Suspends Season

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The home opener for Minnesota United FC was slated for this weekend, but Major League Soccer announced Thursday that the league is suspending its season due to the threat of spreading the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The news comes just a day after the Loons said that Sunday's game at Allianz Field would go on as scheduled. Minnesota United was set to play the New York Red Bulls.

In its announcement Thursday morning, MLS said it's suspending match play for 30 days.

Major League Soccer Suspends Season for 30 Days pic.twitter.com/P0HEPmsnkx

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 12, 2020

The legaue's decision comes after the NBA made the same call Wednesday night after a Utah Jazz player was confirmed to have the virus. On Thursday morning, another Jazz player was also tested positive.

So far in Minnesota, nine people have tested positive for coronavirus. More than 300 people in the state have been tested.