In a highly anticipated Major League Soccer playoff matchup, Minnesota United will face the Seattle Sounders on Monday at Allianz Field. This contest marks their first playoff meeting since 2020 and will be the opening match of a best-of-three series. Minnesota United finished fourth in the Western Conference, securing a spot in the playoffs with 58 points from their strongest regular season to date. Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders, finishing fifth, trailed by three points despite winning their season finale against New York City FC.
Match Preview
Monday’s encounter is significant as it is the first time the Loons will start the post-season at home under the new playoff format. Minnesota recorded eight wins at Allianz Field during the 2025 season, although they have struggled recently, with just one triumph in their last four home matches across all competitions. Coach Eric Ramsay’s strategy has focused on ball possession, averaging around 40%, and exploiting set pieces, which has contributed to their success.
Historical Performance
In the 2025 regular season, Minnesota United achieved a perfect record against Seattle, winning both encounters, including a 1-0 victory at home. However, the Sounders are known for their playoff resilience, being in the postseason 16 out of 17 times. They enter this match having not lost their last four league games and showing improved form, with a streak of three one-goal victories.
| Statistic | Minnesota United | Seattle Sounders |
|---|---|---|
| Standings | 4th | 5th |
| Points | 58 | 55 |
| Recent Form | 1 Win in Last 4 | 4 Matches Unbeaten |
Team News
Both teams face injury concerns ahead of the match. Minnesota United’s Carlos Harvey is likely out with a knee injury, and Jeong Ho-yeon is sidelined due to a cruciate ligament tear. Goalkeeper Dayne St Clair has been nominated for Goalkeeper of the Year, boasting a league-high save percentage of 78.9% this season.
Seattle Sounders will be without attacking midfielder Pedro De la Vega, who suffered a knee injury in their last match. Additionally, Yeimar Gomez Andrade and Ryan Kent are dealing with muscle injuries, and Paul Arriola is recovering from a cruciate ligament injury. However, Jordan Morris and Jackson Ragen were key players in their last victory.
Predicted Lineups
- Minnesota United: St. Clair; Hlongwane, Diaz, Duggan, Romero, Markanich; Pereyra, Triantis, Trapp, Rosales; Yeboah
- Seattle Sounders: Frei; Bell, Ragen, A. Roldan, Tolo; Paulo, Leyva; Ferreira, Rusnak, C. Roldan; Morris
As both teams prepare for this crucial playoff opener, anticipation continues to build. It promises to be a challenging game, with Minnesota United aiming to capitalize on their home advantage while Seattle Sounders look to assert their playoff prowess.
