The Seattle Sounders are hosting the Houston Dynamo on Saturday (7:30 p.m. PT; MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, 93.3 KJR FM, El Rey 1360AM | TICKETS) in their second and final meeting of the regular season. Here are three matchups to watch:
Yeimar vs. Corey Baird
With support of Yeimar in the center back position, the Sounders tallied another shutout over the weekend against Orlando City SC. His consistency on the pitch is represented through his game stats, as he continues to lead the league in interceptions this season with 45. He’ll have to be aware of right winger and Homegrown Player, Corey Baird, who's already contributed to three goals and two assists in 2023 for the Dynamo.
Obed Vargas vs. Héctor Herrera
Since his return from the U-20 World Cup, Obed Vargas has made a slotted into central midfield for the Rave Green. He’s earned his three recent consecutive starts for the team after continuing to showcase his ability to make key passes in the run of play, lock down players defensively, and support João Paulo in controlling the tempo of the game. He’ll likely face up against Dynamo captain and center midfielder Héctor Herrera, who currently leads the his team with seven assists while also tallying three goals this season. His efforts on the pitch have not gone unnoticed, as he was selected to be a part of the 2023 MLS All-Star Game.
Raúl RuidÃaz vs. Micael
After tallying a brace for the Rave Green against Charlotte FC on June 10 and being inches away from scoring two more against LAFC, Raúl RuidÃaz is itching to get back onto the score sheet. As one of the leading scorers in club history, RuidÃaz's presence on the pitch is undeniable. He’ll more than likely be battling it out with center back Micael who recently signed with the first team after having a stellar campaign with Dynamo 2 last year. The Brazilian defender supported Dynamo 2 to eight clean sheets in 17 appearances last season.
