Quick Read
- Seattle Sounders defeated Santos Laguna 2-1 in Leagues Cup 2025.
- Key moments included an early own goal by Santos and a brilliant strike by Georgi Minoungou.
- Minoungou was later sent off with a second yellow card, leaving Seattle with 10 men.
- Cristian Dájome scored a late goal for Santos Laguna, but Seattle held on for the win.
- The Sounders are now atop the Leagues Cup table with a perfect record.
The Seattle Sounders continued their stellar form in the Leagues Cup 2025, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Santos Laguna on Sunday, August 3, at Lumen Field in Seattle. With this win, the Sounders maintain their perfect record in the tournament and top the table heading into their final match of Phase One against Club Tijuana.
Early Momentum Sets the Tone
The match began with high energy from the Sounders, who capitalized on an early opportunity to take the lead. In the 8th minute, an own goal from Santos Laguna’s Haret Ortega gave the home team a 1-0 advantage. The play was initiated by Alex Roldan, whose precise pass to Paul Rothrock led to a low cross that Ortega inadvertently deflected into his own net. This early success underscored the Sounders’ attacking intent, as they dominated possession and created several chances in the first half.
Despite the early lead, the Sounders had to overcome a controversial moment in the 32nd minute. Danny Musovski appeared to have earned a penalty and drawn a red card against Santos Laguna’s Javier Güémez. However, after a VAR review, the referee reversed the decision due to a slight foul by Musovski earlier in the play. The half ended with Seattle in control but unable to extend their lead.
Minoungou Shines, but Drama Ensues
The second half saw the Sounders maintain their offensive pressure, and their efforts paid off in the 72nd minute. Georgi Minoungou, a substitute for Pedro de la Vega, delivered a spectacular goal from the top of the box, assisted by Danny Leyva. Minoungou’s strike doubled the Sounders’ lead, bringing the crowd of 17,265 to their feet.
However, the celebration was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Minoungou received a second yellow card for removing his jersey during his goal celebration, leaving the Sounders with 10 men for the remainder of the match. Head coach Brian Schmetzer acknowledged the emotional moment, stating, “It was a lapse in judgment, but it’s part of the learning curve for young players.”
Late Drama and Defensive Resolve
Playing with a numerical disadvantage, the Sounders shifted their focus to defending their lead. While Santos Laguna struggled to create clear opportunities, they managed to pull a goal back in the 97th minute. Cristian Dájome capitalized on a defensive lapse by Nouhou and beat goalkeeper Andrew Thomas at the near post. Initially flagged for offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review, setting up a nervy finish for the home side.
The Sounders held on through the final moments, securing a vital three points and moving to a perfect 2-0-0 record in the tournament. Reflecting on the match, Schmetzer emphasized the importance of resilience, stating, “We’ve played in tough international competitions before, and this was another test of our character.”
Building Momentum
This victory marks the Sounders’ second consecutive win in the Leagues Cup 2025, following their historic 7-0 demolition of Cruz Azul. The team’s strong performance in international tournaments is not new; they are the only MLS team to have won the Concacaf Champions Cup in its current iteration (2022) and boast two MLS Cup championships.
Players like Danny Leyva, who was instrumental in Minoungou’s goal, and Alex Roldan, who captained the side in the absence of Cristian Roldan, continue to demonstrate the depth and quality of the squad. Leyva’s performance, which included three chances created and a 32/37 passing record, earned praise from fans and analysts alike.
With one match remaining in Phase One, the Sounders are well-positioned to advance to the knockout stages. They face Club Tijuana on Wednesday, August 6, at Lumen Field, where they aim to secure a perfect nine points from three matches.
The Seattle Sounders’ victory against Santos Laguna not only highlights their quality but also reaffirms their status as one of the most competitive teams in North American soccer. As they look ahead to the next phase of the Leagues Cup, the team and their fans can take pride in their continued success.