Seattle Sounders FC vs Club Universidad Nacional: A Clash of Titans in the Liga MX and Leagues Cup
The anticipation is palpable as Seattle Sounders FC prepares to face off against Club Universidad Nacional, also known as Pumas UNAM, in the round of 16 of the Leagues Cup. This match is not just any game; it is a rematch of the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League final where the Sounders emerged victorious. The stakes are high, with both teams eyeing a spot in the quarter-finals and the opportunity to add another prestigious trophy to their collection. For Seattle Sounders, this match represents a chance to achieve something they have not yet accomplished—winning the Leagues Cup. Head coach Brian Schmetzer has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging his team to be the first from Seattle to win this difficult tournament.
The Seattle Sounders have a storied history, having been the first MLS team to become champions in the prestigious continental tournament in 2022. Their motivation for this match is fueled by the desire to continue their legacy of success. On the other hand, Pumas UNAM has undergone significant changes in their roster and technical staff, making them a formidable opponent despite their turnover. Schmetzer has identified key players for Pumas, including César Huerta and Jorge Ruvalcaba, who could pose significant challenges for the Sounders. The Seattle team booked their spot in the round of 16 with a convincing 3-1 win over LA Galaxy, thanks to goals from defenders Alex Roldan, Yeimar Gómez Andrade, and Jackson Ragen.
For Jackson Ragen, playing in the CCL final was a valuable experience that has prepared him for the challenges of the Leagues Cup. Backup goalkeeper Andrew Thomas, who has started in all three of Seattle’s Leagues Cup games, also gained invaluable experience from the CCL final. Schmetzer has confirmed that striker Raúl Ruidíaz, who missed the first three games due to injury, is ready to play and could make an appearance. The Sounders have been in excellent form lately, boasting a record of 9 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw across all competitions since mid-June. Schmetzer reflects on previous mistakes that cost the team but believes they are now limiting those errors and playing with renewed confidence.
The match will take place at Lumen Field, a venue that has witnessed many historic moments for the Sounders. Fans can catch the action on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on FS1 (in English) and Unimás (in Spanish). The match will also be aired on radio in English on 950 KJR AM and in Spanish on El Rey 1360AM. The Sounders were runners-up in West Group 6 and defeated the LA Galaxy 3-1 in the round of 32 to make it to the round of 16. Pumas, on the other hand, were runners-up in West Group 1 and defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-0 to secure their spot in the round of 16. This match is a rematch of the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League final, where the Sounders emerged victorious over Pumas.
The Seattle Sounders have a strong defensive lineup, as evidenced by their performance in the round of 32, where three different defenders scored goals. The team has a history of success against Mexican teams, including reaching the 2021 Leagues Cup final and winning the 2022 Champions League. Pumas’ attacker Jesús Ricardo Huerta has been in top form, with three goals in seven matches and potential transfer links to La Liga. The Seattle Sounders are celebrating their 50th anniversary season and are offering special rates for season ticket deposits. The sooner a deposit is placed, the earlier access to secure seats for the 2025 season will be granted.
The Sounders will also host LAFC in the U.S. Open Cup semifinal at Starfire Sports on August 27. The Sounders have previously won the U.S. Open Cup in 2014, 2016, and 2019. They are looking to continue their success and potentially add another trophy to their collection. Fans are encouraged to grab their tickets and support the Sounders in their upcoming matches against Pumas UNAM and LAFC. The Seattle Sounders have consistently proven their strength in the MLS and are looking to extend their dominance in the Leagues Cup. Their victory over Pumas in the CCL final was by a 5-2 aggregate score, and they are eager to replicate that success in the Leagues Cup.
The rivalry between MLS and Liga MX teams has been intense, with the Seattle Sounders’ recent 4-0 win over Pumas highlighting the growing dominance of MLS teams over their Mexican counterparts. This victory secured the Sounders’ spot in the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup, bringing them one step closer to a trophy they have yet to win. The majority of teams in the knockout stage are from the MLS, showcasing the league’s strong presence and growing influence. Fans have embraced this rivalry, often referencing the USA vs Mexico national team rivalry with chants like ‘dos a cero!’ This local club rivalry adds another layer of excitement to the competition.
MLS teams have largely prevailed over Mexican teams in the past 20 years, a trend that has not gone unnoticed by Liga MX. The Mexican teams are keen to reverse this trend and reassert their dominance. However, the MLS is growing in both the number of clubs and the quality of players. International superstars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have joined MLS teams, signaling the league’s advancement compared to the Mexican league. The MLS continues to dominate in terms of numbers and talent, and the future looks bright with international talents and strong teams. Pumas falls short once again against an American team, but the rivalry is far from over.
Raúl Ruidíaz’s return to the Seattle Sounders lineup is a significant boost for the team. Ruidíaz, who was previously injured, has a history of success against Pumas, having scored seven goals in six matches against them, mostly while playing for Liga MX side Morelia. He also scored the winning goal against Pumas in the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League final. While Andrew Thomas has started the first three leagues cup matches, coach Brian Schmetzer hinted that Stefan Frei may move back into goal for this game. When asked about this on Sunday, Schmetzer did not confirm or deny the speculation but praised both goalkeepers, saying they are both very good.
Schmetzer also mentioned giving opportunities to young goalkeeper Andrew Thomas to help him improve. Omar Hassan, a Sounders academy player, recently scored in his debut for Tacoma Defiance and was given the chance to train with the first team. Midfielder Josh Atencio praised Hassan’s dribbling skills and scoring abilities, and coach Schmetzer also had high praise for Hassan. Schmetzer believes in giving young players opportunities to develop and make good choices. He also mentioned making a good choice for the team when deciding on a goalkeeper for future games. Schmetzer was impressed by Hassan’s performance in training with the first team, and overall, Ruidíaz’s return and the young players’ performances have positive implications for the Sounders team.
The Seattle Sounders are well-prepared for their upcoming games with a mix of experienced players and promising young talent. The team’s recent form has been impressive, and they are looking to carry that momentum into the Leagues Cup. The Sounders have a strong defensive lineup, and their attackers are in top form. With Ruidíaz back in the lineup, the team has an added offensive threat that could make a significant difference in the match against Pumas. The Sounders have a history of success against Mexican teams, and they are looking to continue that trend in the Leagues Cup.
The match against Pumas is more than just a game; it is a clash of titans between two strong teams with a history of success. The Seattle Sounders are motivated by the opportunity to achieve something they have not yet accomplished, and they are determined to win the Leagues Cup. Pumas, on the other hand, are looking to reassert their dominance and reverse the trend of MLS teams prevailing over Mexican teams. The stakes are high, and both teams are prepared to give it their all. Fans can expect an exciting and intense match as these two teams face off in the round of 16 of the Leagues Cup.
In conclusion, the upcoming match between Seattle Sounders FC and Club Universidad Nacional in the Leagues Cup round of 16 is set to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams have a lot at stake, and the rivalry between MLS and Liga MX adds an extra layer of excitement to the match. The Sounders are in excellent form and are motivated by the opportunity to win the Leagues Cup for the first time. Pumas, despite their recent changes, remain a formidable opponent. With key players like Raúl Ruidíaz returning to the lineup and promising young talent emerging, the Sounders are well-prepared for the challenge. Fans can look forward to an exciting and intense match as these two teams clash in what promises to be a memorable encounter.