The Seattle Sounders drew Atlanta United 1-1 on Sunday afternoon at Lumen Field behind a sixth-minute goal from Raúl Ruidíaz.
The Peruvian Designated Player rose on a João Paulo corner kick and powerfully headed home the opener past Brad Guzan. The assist was João Paulo’s fourth of the season, which is tied for the league lead.
Atlanta United equalized in the 86th minute when Josef Martínez converted a penalty kick past goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland.
Seattle maintains its lead atop the Supporters’ Shield standings, having taken 17 points from seven matches to start the season. The Sounders will host MLS newcomers Austin FC next Sunday (6:30 p.m. PT; FS1, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM | TICKETS) in their final match before the international break.
THREE TAKEAWAYS
Best start in club history
The Sounders set a record for the best start to a season in their MLS club history, going undefeated and sporting a 5-0-2 mark. Seattle’s previous best record was set in 2019, coincidentally the year the Rave Green last won MLS Cup.
Ruidíaz strikes again
Ruidíaz now has six goals in seven matches to start the season. He’s second in the Golden Boot standings behind only the LA Galaxy’s Chicharito (seven) and is continuing the form he had last year that led to an MLS Best XI selection.
Open play defensive lockdown
The Sounders have still yet to concede from open play to start the season, with the only three goals they’ve allowed in seven matches coming directly off dead balls. Seattle finishes Week 6 second in MLS in goals allowed this season.
