In their first competitive match since winning the MLS Cup the Seattle Sounders have changes at right back and in the attacking band. Clint Dempsey is returning to the field. Gustav Svensson, as the third right back option, replaces now-Atlanta-United defender Tyrone Mears.
Lineup (4-2-3-1): Stefan Frei; Joevin Jones, Chad Marshall, Roman Torres, Gustav Svensson; Osvado Alonso, Cristian Roldan; Alvaro Fernandez, Clint Dempsey, Nicolas Lodeiro; Jordan Morris
Tactics: When the attackers press expect Clint to retreat to the midfield band with Alonso-Roldan. Marshall and Torres will split wide to cover spaces where Jones and maybe Svensson were. The offense will play quite narrow with Flaco loitering on the back post are at the top of the 18.
Bench: Tyler Miller, Tony Alfaro, Oniel Fisher, Zach Mathers, Henry Wingo, Harry Shipp, Will Bruin
It is likely that Schmetzer tries to limit Dempsey, Morris and Alonso’s playing time for health and fitness reasons. Bruin will likely be the first sub so he can punish his former team.
You can follow the match via our Twitter account or our award winning gamethreads. Our Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Snapchat accounts will be updated throughout the day as well.
Nos Audietis | You Will Hear Us - This is our Sound