The Seattle Sounders are set to face New York City FC (NYCFC) on Saturday in a crucial match as the regular MLS season wraps up. This game, known as Decision Day, promises to be a significant encounter with playoff implications.
Match Details
Date and Time: Saturday, Kickoff at 3 p.m. PT (6 p.m. local time)
Location: Citi Field, Queens, N.Y.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the match on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. For radio listeners, the game will be aired on 950 KJR AM, with a Spanish broadcast available on El Rey 1360AM.
Current Standings
| Team | Record | Points | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Sounders | 14-9-10 | 52 | 5th West |
| New York City FC | 17-11-5 | 56 | 5th East |
Form Guide
- Seattle Sounders: WWDLL
- New York City FC: LWLWW
Previous Encounters
The two teams have not met in over three years, with the Sounders triumphing 4-2 on aggregate in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. In their last MLS meeting in July 2019, NYCFC secured a 3-0 victory at Yankee Stadium.
Implications for the Sounders
The Sounders are guaranteed fifth place in the Western Conference, regardless of the match outcome. They are poised to face Minnesota United in a best-of-three series in the MLS Cup Playoffs, with Minnesota holding home-field advantage.
Roster Updates
Seattle will welcome back several key players, including:
- Cristian Roldan (USA)
- Nouhou (Cameroon)
- Snyder Brunell (U.S. U-19s)
- Georgi Minoungou (Burkina Faso)
- Obed Vargas (Mexico U-20s)
- Reed Baker-Whiting (U.S. U-20s)
Albert Rusnák will also return from suspension.
Building Momentum
After two consecutive victories, the Sounders aim to carry this momentum into the playoffs. With two 1-0 wins recently, they hope to clinch a third straight win on Decision Day.
Home Field Advantage for NYCFC
This season, NYCFC has excelled at home, recording 11 victories which ranks them tied for second in the MLS. Only Charlotte FC and the league-leading Philadelphia Union have more home wins.
Key Players
Alonso Martínez stands out for NYCFC. The Costa Rican forward has been instrumental, scoring 17 goals in the current season, ranking him sixth in the league. His contribution follows an impressive performance last year, showcasing his attacking prowess.
With both teams eager to make a statement, Saturday’s match promises excitement as they gear up for the playoffs. Fans are encouraged to tune in and support their teams on this pivotal day.
