MLS

Leaning on Lodeiro: Dominant play from Nico buoys Seattle Sounders in Western Conference Semifinals

The Seattle Sounders defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-0 on Nov. 2. in the second leg of the Western Conference Semifinals to advance to the Western Conference Championship by the same aggregate score. In this edition of Quest Diagnostics Advanced Stats, we examine how the play of Nicolás Lodeiro helped Seattle down its Cascadia rival.


Although Clint Dempsey stole the headlines with a brace, Lodeiro was everywhere all evening, having a game-high 137 touches and 105 passes, 80 of which came in the Whitecaps’ half. He earned a second assist on Dempsey’s second goal, one of his five key passes that continually broke down Vancouver’s defense.

Leaning on Lodeiro: Dominant play from Nico buoys Seattle Sounders in Western Conference Semifinals -

The Sounders will need more of that from their Uruguayan playmaker as they prepare to take on the Houston Dynamo in the conference finals with a second consecutive MLS Cup berth on the line. The first leg is on Tuesday, Nov. 21 (6:30 p.m. PT; FS1, FOX Deportes, KIRO Radio 97.3 FM, El Rey 1360 AM) at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston before the return leg at CenturyLink Field on Thursday, Nov. 30 (7:30 p.m. PT; ESPN, ESPN Deportes, KIRO Radio 97.3 FM, El Rey 1360 AM | TICKETS).

2026 Season Membership Deposits

2026 Season Membership Deposits

Feel the pull of the Sound and step into something bigger. 2026 will continue to put Seattle soccer on the world stage, so there's no better time to join the Rave Green and grow with the Sounders legacy. Secure your seat alongside the best fans in MLS.

Two Tickets & Two Beers (vs. Portland Timbers)

Two Tickets & Two Beers (vs. Portland Timbers)

Come out to Lumen Field to watch your Seattle Sounders take on Portland with this special ticket offer sponsored by Michelob Ultra. For just $40 + Taxes & Fees, get two tickets & two beers for the match. For 21+ fans only and drinks must be picked up in the North Plaza 21+ beer garden prior to kickoff.

Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. PT on October 4.

Match & Merch Bundle (vs. Portland Timbers)

Match & Merch Bundle (vs. Portland Timbers)

Add a limited-edition Cascadia Rivalry t-shirt to your ticket to the Portland Timbers match. Matchday pick up info will be communicated prior to the match via email.

Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. PT on October 4.