Sounders maintain 100% Phase One record

Seattle Sounders FC 2-1 Santos Laguna

SEATTLE, WA–Seattle Sounders FC regained their top of the table status on the MLS side the Leagues Cup table with a 2-1 win over Liga MX side Santos Laguna. The Sounders are just one of two teams along with Portland to have maximum points from two Phase One matches with only Tigres doing so among Liga MX sides.

The Sounders took the lead in the seventh minute as Paul Rothrock’s cross was accidentally knocked in by Haret Ortega. The Sounders had several chances to add to that lead in the first half. Most notable, Albert Rusnak had a free kick go off the post in the 39th minute. That second goal finally came in the 72nd minute after a wonder strike from Georgi Minoungou. However, two minutes later, Minoungou would sent off for a second bookable offense.

Santos were unable to take advantage of the man advantage until very late. In fact, Santos did not get a shot on goal until the 89th minute. They did eventually score six minutes into stoppage time through Cristian Dajome, but the final whistle would come shortly thereafter eliminating Santos.

The Sounders continue in Leagues Cup play on Wednesday against Club Tijuana knowing a win of any kind (regulation or on penalties) will clinch a spot in the quarterfinals. Kickoff is at 8pm PT on Apple TV.

Photos by Paul Kahl and Nate Koppelman

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