MLS Match Preview: Seattle Sounders FC (7-6-5) vs. Austin FC (7-7-5)

Match Significance

This Seattle Sounders vs Austin FC MLS 2025 fixture is a pivotal battle between two playoff contenders tied on 26 points in the Western Conference. With both clubs sitting just inside the top seven, this match could be a defining moment in the race for postseason positioning.

Seattle Sounders FC – Team Overview

Current Standing: 7th in Western Conference

Record: 7W-5D-7L (26 points)

Last 5 Matches (All Competitions): L-L-L-L-L

Manager: Brian Schmetzer

Key Players: Albert Rusnák, Cristian Roldan, Jordan Morris

Strengths

Home-field advantage at Lumen Field

Rusnák leads the team with 9 goals in 2025

Return of Jordan Morris from injury adds attacking depth

Concerns

Five straight losses across MLS and Club World Cup

Defensive suspensions: Nouhou Tolo and Jonathan Bell (red cards)

Inconsistent midfield control and finishing

Path to Victory

Seattle must regain rhythm after their Club World Cup exit, control possession through Roldan and Rusnák, and capitalize on set pieces. Defensive discipline will be crucial with key absences at the back.

Austin FC – Team Overview

Current Standing: 8th in Western Conference

Record: 7W-5D-7L (26 points)

Last 5 Matches: W-W-L-D-D

Manager: Nico Estévez

Key Players: Brandon Vázquez, Guilherme Biro, Mikkel Desler

Strengths

Back-to-back wins over Colorado and New York Red Bulls

Brandon Vázquez in All-Star form (8 goals)

Solid defensive shape and early scoring momentum

Concerns

Lowest-scoring team in MLS (15 goals in 19 matches)

Injuries to Julio Cascante and Bryant Farkarlun

Struggles to convert chances despite decent xG numbers

Path to Victory

Austin must stay compact, press Seattle’s weakened backline, and rely on Vázquez’s finishing. Quick transitions and wide play from Biro and Desler could stretch the Sounders’ defense.

Head-to-Head & Historical Context

All-Time MLS Meetings: 6

Seattle Wins: 3

Austin Wins: 2

Draws: 1

Last Meeting: Seattle 1–0 Austin (July 13, 2024 – goal by Jordan Morris)

Recent Trend: Austin unbeaten in last 2 visits to Lumen Field (W1, D1)

The California Clásico may get more headlines, but this emerging rivalry has produced tight, tactical battles in recent years.

Tactical Insight & Prediction

Seattle will look to bounce back from a brutal Club World Cup run, while Austin aim to ride their recent momentum. Expect the Sounders to dominate possession but face pressure in transition. The midfield duel—Roldan vs. Pereira—could shape the tempo.