Sounders vs. Charlotte FC – A High-Stakes Season Opener at Lumen Field
Alright, soccer fans, the wait is over! The Seattle Sounders are set to kick off their 2025 MLS season at home against Charlotte FC, and this one promises to be a thriller. It’s a matchup between two defensive powerhouses, a team looking to build on past success, and another aiming to prove they belong among the league's elite. So, let’s break it all down!
For the 14th time in their 16 seasons, the Sounders will open the year at Lumen Field, where they’ll be looking to start strong in front of their home crowd. The last time Charlotte FC visited Seattle, back in 2022, the Sounders walked away with a win. But Charlotte isn’t the same team anymore. They’re coming off their best-ever season, finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference and boasting the second-best defense in the league—just behind the Sounders themselves. So, expect a battle where every goal will be earned.
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Now, let’s talk about the lineups. Seattle is making a few changes in midfield, with Albert Rusnák, Paul Rothrock, and Georgi Minoungou stepping in for Jesús Ferreira, Pedro de la Vega, and Paul Arriola. But let’s not forget, the Sounders are coming off a midweek Concacaf Champions Cup match in Guatemala, where they secured a solid 3-1 victory. Fatigue could play a role, and some rotation is expected to keep the squad fresh.
On the other side, Charlotte has made some big moves this offseason. The headline? Wilfried Zaha—yes, that Wilfried Zaha—has joined the squad. He won’t be playing this match due to personal reasons, but his arrival signals Charlotte’s intent to compete at the highest level. They also acquired Eryk Williamson from Portland, adding creativity to their midfield, and they still have Kristijan Kahlina, last year’s MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, between the posts.
Defensively, both teams are rock solid. Seattle allowed the fewest goals in MLS last season, and Charlotte wasn’t far behind. But both squads have added offensive firepower. The Sounders’ new duo of Ferreira and Arriola showed glimpses of brilliance in their Champions Cup match, linking up for a goal within minutes of being on the pitch. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s attack is still coming together, but they’ll be hoping their new pieces can hit the ground running.
With kickoff set for 7:30 PM PT at Lumen Field, fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass. Expect an intense, hard-fought battle between two well-organized teams, both looking to make a statement in their first match of the season. Will Seattle’s home advantage and attacking reinforcements prove too much for Charlotte? Or will the visitors pull off a statement win on the road? Either way, this is a game you don’t want to miss!
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