Major League Soccer is no longer a niche; it's now a driving force in the North American sports scene. Among its fastest-growing clubs, Minnesota United FC—proudly known as the “Loons”—has carved out a fierce identity in the Upper Midwest. Since making their MLS debut in 2017, they’ve played home matches at the architecturally striking Allianz Field in Saint Paul, a soccer-specific stadium that seats 19,400 fans and features a translucent roof canopy and safe-standing supporter sections.
Backed by a committed ownership group, including Bill McGuire, Glen Taylor, and the Pohlad family (owners of the Minnesota Twins), the club has invested heavily in both infrastructure and digital engagement to elevate the matchday experience. Their efforts resonate not only with local Minnesotans but also with loyal viewers across the U.S. and internationally.
For soccer followers trying to follow every goal, play, and rivalry, access matters. DIRECTV remains one of the most comprehensive live TV platforms for sports, offering robust coverage of top-tier leagues including MLS. Whether you're watching from Minneapolis or halfway across the country, DIRECTV has several options to bring you the electric energy of every Loons fixture.
DIRECTV plays a central role in the U.S. sports broadcasting ecosystem, offering a robust array of channels curated for soccer fans nationwide. Its expansive coverage includes both national broadcasters and regional networks, creating a reliable platform for following teams like Minnesota United FC across Major League Soccer (MLS).
Subscribers get access to over 40 dedicated sports channels, including staples like ESPN, FOX Sports 1 (FS1), FOX, CBS Sports Network, and NBC Sports Network. For soccer-specific content, that's only the beginning. DIRECTV includes fútbol-focused channels such as TUDN and Univision Deportes for Spanish-language broadcasts, offering even more depth for bilingual and bicultural viewers.
DIRECTV has continually secured broadcast rights for top leagues, including MLS. While the competition’s digital rights shifted significantly in 2023 with the launch of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, DIRECTV still serves as a valuable platform for accessing games aired by FOX and FS1, the league’s remaining national linear broadcasters. This integration ensures that fans can still watch select live matches, expert analysis, and post-game coverage from the convenience of their DIRECTV guide.
DIRECTV supports regional fandom by carrying Regional Sports Networks tailored to home markets. In the case of Minnesota United FC, Bally Sports North broadcasts locally available matches. These RSNs are bundled with compatible DIRECTV packages, depending on ZIP code — no add-ons required for in-market subscribers.
When referencing team names, logos, or broadcasting rights, DIRECTV follows licensing policies defined by Major League Soccer and its media partners. Any presentation of Minnesota United FC in programming — from graphics to commentary — reflects authorized league content. This compliance ensures fans receive accurate and officially sanctioned coverage during every broadcast.
Minnesota United FC publishes its full season schedule on the official team website at mnufc.com. For a league-wide view, the full Major League Soccer calendar is available at mlssoccer.com/schedule. Both platforms detail match dates, start times, opponents, locations, and designated broadcasters.
Updates to game times or TV rights are reflected in real-time, making these sources the most reliable for planning your viewing around the MNUFC schedule.
No fan benefits from scrambling for channels five minutes before kick-off. DIRECTV’s on-screen guide, mobile app, and online scheduler make it possible to set reminders or record matches in advance with precision. Once the Minnesota United schedule drops, cross-reference each fixture with the channel guide to ensure coverage through your current package.
Game start times generally follow Central Time, aligning with the club’s home base in Saint Paul. For fans outside the region, adjusting for time zone differences becomes necessary. DIRECTV’s listing automatically converts times based on ZIP code—no manual calculations required.
Want to watch back-to-back matchdays or build a weekend viewing plan? Identify clusters around home stretches and marquee weekends by reading the full monthly schedule. This method helps you avoid missing key matchups and capitalize on double-headers.
Starting with the 2023 season, Major League Soccer signed a 10-year global distribution deal with Apple Inc. Through this arrangement, every MLS match — regular season, playoffs, and Leagues Cup — streams exclusively on the MLS Season Pass, available through the Apple TV app. This includes all Minnesota United FC games, with no local blackouts or regional restrictions.
The MLS Season Pass requires a separate subscription. For the 2025 season, pricing is set at $14.99 per month or $99 per season, with a discount for Apple TV+ subscribers, who can access the pass for $12.99 per month or $79 per season. The subscription works across all devices that support the Apple TV app, including smart TVs, game consoles, streaming boxes, and Apple devices.
Even users without Apple TV+ can subscribe. There's also a “TV only” viewing mode, allowing access to games directly via the Apple TV app on smart televisions or streaming devices, without the need for a linked Apple ID. Audio broadcasts feature home and away commentary, plus Spanish- and French-language options for select games.
If you're watching without MLS Season Pass and want nationally televised matches, a select number of MLS games air on traditional networks. Here's where to find them:
These fox-branded broadcasts typically showcase league-wide interest games rather than focusing on individual club markets. Minnesota United FC may appear in these broadcasts depending on record, opponent, and schedule timing.
DIRECTV structures its sports programming across a mix of national and regional channels, giving viewers access to both high-profile matches and local broadcasts. National sports networks like FOX, FS1, and ESPN carry many of Major League Soccer’s marquee games, including Minnesota United FC matchups that are nationally televised.
To find Minnesota United FC on DIRECTV, start with these key channels:
DIRECTV includes local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in its higher-tier packages. For Minnesota United FC, Bally Sports North covers many of the team’s home and regional matches. Exact availability depends on your ZIP code and selected satellite package. When available, Bally Sports North broadcasts pre- and post-match shows along with full game coverage.
DIRECTV’s channel numbers aren't universal—they change based on your local market. For viewers trying to locate Minnesota United FC games, use the DIRECTV Channel Guide online. Enter your ZIP code, select your package, and access a real-time lineup for your location. This is the fastest way to confirm whether FOX, FS1, or Bally Sports North are in your channel mix and which number to tune in to.
MLS has moved many games to exclusive streaming platforms, but select Minnesota United FC broadcasts are still available via DIRECTV. High-demand fixtures, local derbies, and matches with playoff implications are more likely to appear on national channels. Midweek or lower-profile games may rely more on RSNs when available in-market. Doubleheaders and special event days (like Decision Day) commonly include Minnesota United as part of broader coverage.
Minnesota United FC games that aren’t picked up for national distribution often air on Bally Sports North, the regional sports network (RSN) covering professional sports across Minnesota and parts of the Upper Midwest. As the official regional broadcaster, Bally Sports North holds rights to select matches, particularly those with local appeal but not enough market share for national programming.
DIRECTV includes Bally Sports North in several of its higher-tier packages. Specifically, subscribers to the CHOICE™ package or above who reside within the network’s designated market area (DMA) can access Bally Sports North without an additional regional sports fee. The presence of Bally Sports programming increases the value of these mid-to-premium packages for local sports fans.
Regional Sports Networks on DIRECTV operate under strict geographic licensing. Availability of Bally Sports North depends entirely on the ZIP code associated with your service address. For example, a subscriber in Minneapolis (ZIP code 55401) will have Bally Sports North included, while someone in Fargo, North Dakota may have access to Bally Sports North Extra or none at all, depending on NBA, MLB, and MLS licensing restrictions.
If a game is listed for regional broadcast on Bally Sports North and you're located within the valid service region, the match will air live without requiring MLS Season Pass or national coverage. However, subscribers outside the broadcast footprint won’t see the match on Bally Sports North via DIRECTV and will need to look into other viewing options. This ZIP code-driven model directly influences whether viewers see Minnesota United FC locally or have to turn to out-of-market solutions.
Not sure what you'll get? Entering your ZIP code on the DIRECTV website or contacting customer service will immediately confirm Bally Sports North access under your subscription setup.
DIRECTV offers two distinct ways to access Minnesota United FC matches: its traditional satellite service and the streaming-focused DIRECTV Stream. Both options deliver access to key broadcasters like FS1, ESPN, and your Regional Sports Network (RSN) — typically Bally Sports North for Minnesota-based games. But they differ in flexibility and delivery.
DIRECTV Stream provides a more adaptable experience, allowing access without satellite hardware. It supports streaming through internet-connected devices and doesn't require professional installation. The Choice package or higher includes Bally Sports North — a critical detail for Minnesota United fans.
Meanwhile, the satellite service guarantees a consistent signal that's not dependent on internet bandwidth, but streaming support is more limited.
For fans preferring tablets, mobile screens, or smart TVs, the DIRECTV app bridges the gap. It enables streaming of live sporting events, including Minnesota United FC broadcasts, on a wide range of devices. Compatible platforms include:
The app syncs with your subscription, so access depends on your package tier and geographic rights. Logging in with your DIRECTV credentials unlocks channels included in your plan.
Streamed content through DIRECTV Stream allows for up to 20 simultaneous streams within the same home network. Outside the home, up to 3 concurrent streams are supported. This makes it possible for household members to follow the match while others catch different programming.
Streaming regional matches on DIRECTV Stream — specifically those broadcast via Bally Sports North — requires physical presence within the designated viewing region. This blackout model complies with MLS broadcasting rules and applies even if the channel is included in your package.
For example, a DIRECTV Stream subscriber based in Chicago won’t be able to stream a Minnesota United FC home game on Bally Sports North. In such cases, games fall under blackout rules and appear unavailable through RSNs, pushing out-of-market fans to national broadcasts or MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
When watching Minnesota United FC from outside Minnesota, MLS Season Pass delivers full access without regional restrictions. Available exclusively on the Apple TV app, it offers all regular season matches, playoff games, and Leagues Cup fixtures—every game, no blackouts.
The service streams in 1080p with commentary in English and Spanish, plus French for Canadian teams. It also includes a whip-around show and match replays. Subscriptions run at $14.99/month or $99/season, while Apple TV+ subscribers pay $12.99/month or $79/season.
Out-of-market viewers can’t access Bally Sports North—Minnesota United’s main RSN—through DIRECTV unless located within the designated home broadcast territory. DIRECTV’s contracts with RSNs like Bally restrict availability to local zip codes. Attempting to view these networks outside the assigned region will result in blackout screens or access blocks.
Some fans turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to circumvent regional restrictions. These tools route your internet connection through servers in different locations, theoretically allowing access to content as if you're physically present in that area.
However, MLS streaming platforms and RSNs apply VPN-detecting technologies that reduce success rates. Services like the Apple TV app with an MLS Season Pass may still block content if a VPN is detected. Additionally, terms of service for most broadcasters prohibit such activity, which can lead to account suspension if flagged.
DIRECTV does not offer universal Regional Sports Network access across the U.S. While it provides robust RSN coverage within defined market areas, the system does not allow for national viewing of teams outside your home market. For example, subscribers in Arizona cannot access Bally Sports North to watch Minnesota games through DIRECTV, even with a top-tier package.
To follow Minnesota United FC from out of state, bypass regional blocks entirely by relying on nationwide platforms rather than local network access.
When Minnesota United FC isn’t appearing in your DIRECTV guide, start by confirming the game is actually airing on a network included in your subscription. Several matches air on regional sports networks like Bally Sports North or on national platforms depending on the schedule. If the channel is part of your package but the game still won’t load, other factors might be at play.
Not all DIRECTV plans include regional sports networks or national sports channels. For example:
If your current subscription lacks these, DIRECTV will block access. Upgrading your plan resolves this instantly.
MLS enforces blackout restrictions based on your geographic location and broadcasting rights. This means:
Check the MLS blackout map or use your ZIP code on DIRECTV’s support page to confirm whether a game should be viewable in your area.
Leaving your home market? That could interfere with your access permissions. DIRECTV’s app or satellite service validates your current location when delivering region-specific content. If you’re outside your billing region, some channels — including Bally Sports North — may not load due to licensing boundaries.
Still no access? Contact DIRECTV’s customer support via phone or chat. Agents can:
Licensing and territorial restrictions are not within DIRECTV's control. If a broadcaster retains local rights to a game, DIRECTV won’t receive permission to air it in that market. This decision lies with MLS broadcasting partners and rights holders such as Apple TV (for MLS Season Pass), FOX, or local affiliate networks.
For those facing consistent access issues, combining DIRECTV service with the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV ensures full coverage of Minnesota United FC matches, regardless of location or regional blackouts.
To access nationally televised Minnesota United FC matches, start with the DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT or CHOICE package. Both include FOX and FS1, two primary broadcast partners for select MLS fixtures. FOX also airs playoff games and high-profile inter-conference matchups. FS1 picks up marquee Sunday night games throughout the season.
When Minnesota United FC plays locally, regional coverage becomes your gateway. DIRECTV’s CHOICE package and all tiers above it carry Bally Sports North, the RSN broadcasting most in-market games.
Subscribers in the broadcast region automatically receive access to Bally Sports North—no add-on required, no blackout barriers for home games. This holds the key to following the club's full season without interruption.
Add the Sports Pack to extend access to over 40 regional and specialty sports networks. This bundle includes out-of-region Bally affiliates and channels like beIN Sports and ESPN Deportes, which feature select international friendlies and MLS highlights.
Combine DIRECTV with AT&T Internet or phone services to streamline billing while unlocking promotional perks. These bundles often reduce your per-service cost and can provide free access to premium packages for a limited time, including HBO Max or CINEMAX. Though not directly tied to Minnesota United FC coverage, these perks increase overall package utility without additional spend.
DIRECTV packages vary by ZIP code. Always verify Bally Sports North availability by checking your local lineup before subscribing to CHOICE or higher-tier plans.
Those living in or near Minnesota can rely on a mix of regional and national coverage. Bally Sports North carries the majority of local broadcasts. DIRECTV includes this regional sports network (RSN) in packages serving the Upper Midwest. National games, airing on FOX, FS1, or FS2, also show up regularly on DIRECTV's channel roster.
Out-of-market fans won’t receive Bally Sports North on DIRECTV, so the viewing strategy shifts. The most consistent option is the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, which carries every league match live and on demand.
If you're avoiding satellite dishes but still want live TV, DIRECTV Stream offers flexibility. The “Choice” package and above includes regional sports networks like Bally Sports North, assuming you’re in-market, along with all relevant national channels.
You don’t need full season access to catch a game or two. Select Minnesota United FC games air nationally, often in primetime slots. FS1 and FOX are easy to find on virtually all DIRECTV packages.
Which viewing category fits your needs best? Define your fandom, then match it with one of these reliable setup options to stay tuned into every Loons moment—home or away.
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