The Seattle Sounders are hosting Sporting Kansas City on Saturday (12:08 p.m. PT; ABC, ESPN Deportes, 93.3 KJR FM, El Re 1360 AM | TICKETS). Here are three matchups to watch:
Jordan Morris vs. Graham Zusi
Morris finished last week’s match against LAFC with a career-high five chances created, as he was able to get in behind and wreak havoc defensively. He’ll have a favorable matchup and pace advantage against 35-year-old right fullback Zusi. Look for Morris to stretch the back line and be on the receiving end of through balls from…
Nicolás Lodeiro vs. Remi Walter
Sporting Kansas City had a major loss this past offseason, as former defensive midfielder Ilie Sánchez departed for LAFC. The Spaniard was a staple in Head Coach Peter Vermes’ midfield, and his absence has been felt so far this year. Look for Lodeiro, who is in his best form since before his injury-riddled 2021, to dictate the tempo in the final third and spring Morris and Cristian Roldan in behind on the wings.
Nouhou vs. Johnny Russell
Nouhou has established himself as one of the league’s best left backs, and he’ll need another strong performance on Saturday. Russell, SKC’s 32-year-old Scottish winger, leads the team with five goals. He has six career goals against the Sounders in six matches, including a goal in three straight contests. With Designated Player forward Alan Pulido out for the season, SKC relies heavily on Russell for goals and offensive chance-creation. If Nouhou & Co. can keep him quiet, there’s a legitimate chance the Sounders grab another three points at home.
CELEBRATING PRIDE
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