Seattle Sounders vs. Los Angeles FC Preview – Prediction, Team news, Lineups – Football News, Previews, Predictions, Transfers

Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles FC gear up for a high-stakes encounter at Lumen Field, vying for a spot in the Western Conference final in the MLS Cup playoffs showdown on Sunday.

Match Preview:

The Rave Green’s strong defensive shape, conceding the second-fewest goals in MLS during the 2023 regular season, propelled them into the conference semi-finals after a hard-fought victory against Toros.

Under manager Brian Schmetzer’s guidance, Seattle’s traditional mid-block strategy has proved effective, denying scoring opportunities to opponents and manufacturing chances for their attackers.

With an unbeaten streak at Lumen Field and an impressive home playoff record, the Sounders pose a formidable challenge.

However, they face a resilient LAFC side, unbeaten in their last five domestic fixtures, displaying quality transitions and high-pressing moments.

LAFC, unbeaten in their recent playoff outings and adept at scoring first, presents a threat to Seattle’s defensive solidity.

Manager Steve Cherundolo’s tactical simplicity focuses on creating solid scoring positions for their attacking threats.

Team News:

Seattle’s Reed Baker-Whiting remains questionable due to a hamstring strain, while key players like Albert Rusnak, Raul Ruidiaz, and Nicolas Lodeiro are poised to make an impact against LAFC.

LAFC relies on Denis Bouanga’s goal-scoring prowess, with the forward registering a significant number of goals, while Maxime Crepeau’s goalkeeping skills bolster their defense.

Probable Starting Lineups:

Seattle Sounders:(4-5-1)

Frei;

A. Roldan, Gomez, Ragen, Tolo;

Paulo, Atencio, C. Roldan, Rusnak, Lodeiro;

Morris

Los Angeles FC:(4-3-3)

Crepeau;

Hollingshead, Maldonado, Chiellini, Palacios;

Tillman, Sanchez, Bogusz;

Olivera, Vela, Bouanga

Predictions:

In a battle between Seattle Sounders’ defensive resilience and LAFC’s attacking prowess, a tightly contested match is anticipated.

We predict Seattle Sounders to edge past LAFC with a 1-0 victory, frustrating the reigning champions with their well-organized backline.