Sounders Held to Scoreless Draw in Champions Cup Against Cruz Azul

SEATTLE, WA – The Seattle Sounders endured a tightly contested match on March 5, 2025, finishing in a 0-0 draw against Mexico’s Cruz Azul in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 at Lumen Field.

Despite multiple scoring chances, neither team was able to capitalize. The Sounders maintained their momentum from previous matches but were ultimately forced to settle for a tie.

The game began with both teams creating early opportunities. In the 15th minute, forward Jordan Morris nearly put Seattle ahead when he broke through Cruz Azul’s defense, but defender Willer Ditta made a crucial last-minute sliding effort to deny the goal.

Cruz Azul responded with a set piece in the 24th minute, but Mateusz Bogusz‘s free-kick attempt was effectively blocked by the Sounders’ defensive wall. Seattle’s defense continued to perform under pressure, with several key interceptions and blocks.

As the match progressed, Cruz Azul’s Gabriel Fernández attempted to shoot from inside the box just before halftime, only to be thwarted by a decisive block from Seattle’s defense. Morris nearly found the back of the net in the 43rd minute with a header that sailed just over the goal.

In the second half, the Sounders remained persistent in their pursuit of a goal. Just three minutes into the half, Nouhou’s effort off a cross hit the crossbar, denying Seattle yet another chance to take the lead.

Seattle’s best opportunity came in the 51st minute when a misplay by Cruz Azul goalkeeper Kevin Mier allowed a ball to fall to Pedro de la Vega, who fired a shot into the net. However, the goal was disallowed as the center referee ruled Arriola was offside in the build-up.

In the 70th minute, Morris had another great chance to break the deadlock, intercepting a loose ball and sprinting towards goal, but his shot struck the post, keeping the score level. The Sounders maintained pressure through the end of the match but ultimately could not find the elusive goal.

Seattle’s defense was a significant factor in the match, as they restricted Cruz Azul to just two shots on goal, and goalkeeper Stefan Frei only faced two saves throughout the entire game. Seattle achieved impressive stats with 16 interceptions, three blocks, and 24 clearances.

Morris, who displayed determination throughout the match, sought to break the club’s all-time scoring record. His three attempts underscored his pivotal role in Seattle’s offense.

The Sounders will head to Mexico City for the second leg of the Round of 16 on March 11, where they will need to score to secure a place in the quarterfinals. A victory or draw with goals will advance them, but another scoreless tie would lead to extra time and potentially penalties.