When Will James Rodríguez Make His MLS Debut? Minnesota United Win Without Colombian Star in 2026 MLS Season

Minnesota United secured its first victory of the 2026 Major League Soccer season with a narrow 1–0 win over FC Cincinnati at Allianz Field in Saint Paul. While the home side celebrated three valuable points, the biggest talking point of the night was the absence of Colombian star James Rodríguez, who did not make his MLS debut.

The experienced midfielder, one of the club’s most high-profile signings ahead of the 2026 MLS campaign, remained on the bench for the entire match and did not participate in warm-up activities. The Colombia national team captain watched from the technical area as temperatures dropped to a freezing wind chill of −12°C, adding another layer of intrigue to his delayed debut.

Minnesota United found the decisive goal in the 66th minute through Kelvin Yeboah. After a free kick from Argentine playmaker Tomás Chancalay struck the post, the Ghanaian forward reacted quickly to the rebound and headed the ball into the net, sealing the victory for the Loons.

FC Cincinnati — set to face Tigres in the Concacaf Champions Cup — pushed forward late in the match searching for an equalizer but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. The defeat marked Cincinnati’s first loss of the MLS season after opening the campaign with a win.

Minnesota United, which previously drew 2–2 against Austin FC in the opening round, now temporarily sits atop the Western Conference standings. However, much of the attention surrounding the club remains focused on when James Rodríguez will finally debut in Major League Soccer.

The 34-year-old midfielder arrived as one of the marquee names of the 2026 MLS season, raising expectations among fans and analysts alike. Despite the anticipation, the coaching staff opted not to use him during this second matchday, sparking conversation among supporters eager to see the Colombian playmaker in action.

James Rodríguez’s potential MLS debut could come on March 7, when Minnesota United travels to face Nashville SC in Matchday 3. Excitement continues to build as fans await the first appearance of one of international soccer’s most recognizable stars in American soccer.

For now, Minnesota celebrates its first win of the season while the long-awaited debut of James Rodríguez remains one of the most anticipated storylines in MLS 2026.