Seattle Sounders Prepare for High-Stakes Match Against Austin FC

AUSTIN, Texas — The Seattle Sounders will try to return to winning form as they face Austin FC today at 4 PM PT at Q2 Stadium. Historically, the Sounders have performed well against Austin, holding a 5-3-1 record, including a 3-0-1 mark at this venue.

Both teams are battling for playoff positions in the Western Conference. Seattle currently holds the 5th spot with 45 points, while Austin is closely trailing in 7th with 41 points. A win for the Sounders could create a significant gap in the playoff race, while a loss for Austin could place them just one point behind.

In injury news, Austin FC will miss Brandon Vazquez and Paul Arriola, both sidelined with knee injuries. The Sounders will be without goalkeeper Stefan Frei due to illness, along with Stuart Hawkins (quad), Ryan Kent (hamstring), and Pedro de la Vega is questionable with a knee issue.

Key players to watch include Owen Wolff, who has had a breakout season with five goals and six assists, and Myrto Uzuni, an Albanian international who netted four goals in his last seven appearances. Both players are crucial for their teams as they push for playoff positions.

The match is set to be streamed live on Apple TV+ and can also be listened to on iHeartMedia Seattle and El Rey 1360AM in Spanish. This match not only carries playoff implications but also continues to build on the rivalry between these two competitive teams.

The Sounders are coming off a recent loss to Inter Miami, breaking a strong run of form with only two losses in their last 17 matches since returning from the FIFA Club World Cup. Coach Brian Schmetzer expressed confidence in his team’s depth and resilience, stating, “It’s a little bit of adversity, but we’re going to come back with a strong performance against Austin.”

With both teams eager for points, this match promises to be an exciting clash as they move towards the end of the season.