Sounders Fall in Tense Shootout Finale

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

The Seattle Sounders faced a dramatic end to their season after a tense shootout against Minnesota United. The match culminated with a score of 3-3 in regulation, leading to a shootout that saw Minnesota win 7-6. This playoff matchup reiterated the unpredictability of soccer, differing significantly from their last encounter in Minnesota.

Seattle’s Strong Start

The Sounders started the match with an explosive performance. Albert Rusnák opened the scoring just five minutes in, displaying brilliant teamwork. He was set up by Danny Musovski, who found Rusnák for a stunning first-time shot that beat Minnesota’s goalkeeper, Dayne St. Clair.

Musovski himself scored shortly after, in the 8th minute. A corner kick taken by Rusnák led to a defensive error from Minnesota, allowing Musovski to convert the chance from close range, putting Seattle ahead 2-0.

Shift in Momentum

As the match progressed, Minnesota started to fight back. Joaquin Pereyra capitalized on a free kick in the 19th minute, curling the ball over the wall and past Stefan Frei, narrowing the gap to 2-1.

The match took a turn in the 41st minute when Minnesota’s Joseph Rosales received a red card for a headbutt on Jesús Ferreira, leaving the Loons a man short. Despite their disadvantage, Minnesota leveled the score in the 62nd minute through a header from Jefferson Diaz.

Then, in the 71st minute, Minnesota took the lead with Anthony Markanich heading the ball in from a corner kick, making it 3-2.

Late Drama

With time ticking down, Seattle pushed for a rally. Substitute Jordan Morris found the back of the net in the 88th minute, equalizing the score at 3-3. Both teams had opportunities throughout stoppage time, but neither could clinch the victory, leading to a shootout.

Tense Shootout

The shootout showcased high tension and missed opportunities. Seattle initially capitalized on a Minnesota miss, with Rusnák converting their first penalty. However, Morris struck the crossbar on his attempt.

As the shootout progressed, Thomas made two crucial saves against Anthony Markanich and Hassani Dotson. But Seattle’s Obed Vargas missed his chance when his shot hit the post. Ultimately, Andrew Thomas’s last-minute shot hit the crossbar, sealing a 7-6 victory for Minnesota.

Key Highlights

Sounders led 2-0 after early goals by Rusnák and Musovski.
Pereyra and Diaz helped Minnesota fight back with goals.
Morris scored a late equalizer to push the game into a shootout.
Minnesota won the shootout after 10 rounds.

Looking Ahead

The defeat marks the end of the Sounders’ 2025 season, prompting potential changes in the offseason. Key players including Obed Vargas could be moving on, while other contracts are set to expire. The team will need to navigate these transitions as they prepare for future competitions, including the Concacaf Champions Cup.