Sounders vs. Minnesota in MLS Playoffs Round One: Key Details
The Seattle Sounders are set to take on Minnesota United in the second match of their Best-of-Three First Round series in the MLS Cup Playoffs. This crucial matchup will occur at Lumen Field on Monday evening.
Match Details
- Date: Monday
- Kickoff Time: 7:45 p.m. PT
- Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle
Broadcast Information
Fans can tune in to watch the match on various platforms:
- Television: FS1, FOX Deportes, TSN/RDS
- Streaming: Apple TV+ & MLS Season Pass
- Radio: iHeart App, SiriusXM FC 157 (Spanish broadcast on El Rey 1360AM)
Playoff Format Overview
The playoff format ensures that each First Round game produces a winner, eliminating ties and aggregate scoring. If the match remains tied after regulation, teams will proceed directly to penalty kicks to determine the winner. The first team to secure two wins advances to the Conference Semifinals, where the format shifts to a single-elimination style.
Previous Match Recap
In their first encounter, the Sounders and Loons played to a scoreless draw. Minnesota triumphed in the subsequent penalty shootout with a score of 3-2, placing the pressure on Seattle to win this upcoming match.
What’s at Stake
The Sounders must win on Monday to keep their playoff hopes alive. A victory for Minnesota would advance them to the Conference Semifinals, closing the door on Seattle’s postseason dreams.
Future Match Schedule
If needed, a Game Three will take place in Minnesota on Saturday, November 8, with the time yet to be determined.
Home Field Advantage
Seattle aims to leverage their home dominance, having lost only once in 17 MLS matches at Lumen Field in 2025. This record ties them with the Philadelphia Union for the lowest number of defeats in the league. However, that lone loss was inflicted by Minnesota in June.
Defensive Struggles
The Sounders faced an unusual challenge last Monday, being held scoreless for the first time in ten matches—both regular season and playoffs. Their previous scoreless experience also occurred against Minnesota in August.
Historic Playoff Achievements
Since joining MLS in 2009, the Sounders have recorded 25 playoff wins, tying them with the LA Galaxy for the most in that timeframe. A win on Monday would grant Seattle sole ownership of this competitive record.
Key Players to Watch
The Sounders will rely heavily on veteran players with vast playoff experience. Goalkeeper Stefan Frei, holding 37 playoff appearances, and midfielder Cristian Roldan, with 33, are crucial to the team’s strategy as they aim to push the series back to Minnesota.
