Major League Soccer on Monday named Seattle Sounders midfielder João Paulo to the Week 24 MLS Team of the Week on the back of his match-winning performance against Minnesota United at Lumen Field on Saturday. Additionally, goalkeeper Stefan Frei earned a place on the bench for his shutout in his first start back following a lengthy injury layoff.
Operating at the base of Seattle's midfield, João Paulo bossed both sides of the ball against the Loons. The Brazilian box-to-box midfielder posted a key pass, a tackle and won 50 percent of his 11 duels on top of his game-winning goal in the 22nd minute. Frei, who made his first appearance since a May 12 draw at San Jose, posted four saves and a clean sheet in his return to action.
João Paulo, Frei and the rest of the Seattle Sounders return to action on Tuesday as they host Liga MX powerhouse Santos Laguna (7:00 p.m. PT; ESPN2, TUDN | TICKETS) in the Leagues Cup Semifinals at Lumen Field.
