Sounders Snap Losing Streak with Late Comeback Against Sporting KC
The Seattle Sounders defeated Sporting Kansas City 2-1 on Thursday, securing their third consecutive win and extending their unbeaten run to eight games. After falling behind 1-0 in the 44th minute due to a deflection goal by Andre Luiz, Seattle equalized through Sebastian Gomez in the 51st minute. Cristian Roldan scored the winner in the 90th minute via a deflection off a defender. The victory moves Seattle to seventh in the Western Conference, ending a difficult stretch that included an eight-game losing streak and poor home form. Coach Brian Schmetzer cited frustration at halftime, making a single substitution that proved decisive. Jordan Morris, who had struggled with injuries and form earlier in the season, delivered a strong performance, creating both goals. The Sounders now prepare for a road trip starting against New England Revolution on October 10.
Key points
- Seattle Sounders beat Sporting Kansas City 2-1, marking their third straight win and eighth consecutive unbeaten match.
- Andre Luiz scored for Sporting KC in the 44th minute after a deflection from a Seattle clearance attempt.
- Sebastian Gomez equalized in the 51st minute, scoring just six minutes after entering as a halftime substitute.
- Cristian Roldan scored the winning goal in the 90th minute, with the ball deflecting off defender Wyatt Meyer into the net.
- Jordan Morris created both goals, signaling a return to form after a season plagued by injuries and inconsistent play.
- Coach Brian Schmetzer made only one substitution at halftime, stating he was 'pissed' at the team's first-half performance.
Background
The Sounders had endured a difficult stretch in 2026, including an eight-game losing streak and a four-game home skid, as noted in earlier coverage. They had also struggled with a 12-game winless run, settling for draws against LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls. This victory marks a significant turnaround in form and confidence for the team.
How outlets are covering it
Sounder at Heart emphasized the tactical risks in Seattle's transition play, noting that while the team bent but did not break, their defensive vulnerabilities in transition remain a concern. They highlighted Jordan Morris's return to form as a major positive. Sporting Kansas City's official site quoted their team as feeling 'unlucky' to leave without points, suggesting they viewed the result as harsh given their performance. Seattle Sounders FC's official site focused on lineup changes, noting Paul Arriola's start and Peter Kingston's return. Courier News provided no substantive content, only login and registration forms, offering no perspective on the match.
Why it matters
This win is pivotal for the Sounders as they enter the final stretch of the MLS season. It breaks a long losing and winless streak, improves their playoff positioning, and signals a potential resurgence in form, particularly from key players like Jordan Morris. It also demonstrates the impact of tactical adjustments and youth development, as seen with Sebastian Gomez's goal.
What to watch
The Sounders will begin a two-game road trip, starting with a match against New England Revolution on Saturday, October 10. Their next home match is not specified, but the road trip is the immediate focus.
- BBQ tears redux: Sounders grab late winner Sounder at Heart
- Sounders strike in 90th minute to beat Sporting KC The Seattle Times
- SEAvSKC Starting XI: Paul Arriola earns start on the wing, Peter Kingston returns to the lineup Seattle Sounders FC
- MLS Sporting KC Sounders Soccer couriernews.com
- SEAvSKC Quotes: "It was very unlucky that we leave here away with zero points." Sporting Kansas City
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