Vancouver Whitecaps Destroy Seattle Sounders 3-0

The Vancouver Whitecaps took advantage of the Seattle Sounders’ meltdown to win 3-0. It continued a long streak of non-losing games and made the Sounders go on a two-game losing streak. With the Whitecaps dominating in every statistical category except possession and passing, what happened?

Game Recap

The Whitecaps were only up 1-0 with a goal from Jeevan Badwal in the 40th minute when the Sounders melted down in the blink of an eye with red cards from both Nouhou Tolo and Jon Bell in the 52nd and 55th minutes opening the floodgates for the Whitecaps.

They took advantage, turning that 1-0 lead into a 3-0 win with further goals from Daniel Rios in the 70th minute and a penalty converted in the 88th by Damir Kreilach. This was not so much a Whitecaps win as it was a Sounders loss. Their complete lack of discipline was the reason the Sounders were blown out.

So Why Did the Sounders Struggle and Let Themselves Lose to the Whitecaps?

One of the biggest criticisms from Sounders fans is the lack of counterattacking from the Sounders. This is because Brian Schmetzer’s system is so heavily possession-based. Looking to win the game and create chances from the midfield, but with such a heavy emphasis on control, it makes creating chances a secondary goal. It can only work at its most efficient with an efficient finisher. Something the Sounders have lacked even after signing USMNT striker Jesús Ferreira. 

Second Half Meltdown

While the second red card was a contentious decision amongst fans, the first red was almost unanimously agreed to be fair. What sucks is the Sounders, who had 7 shots in total compared to the Whitecaps’ 13 shots, actually looked solid and could’ve created an equalizer if not for the reds.

Nouhou Tolo in particular has gotten lots of grief from fans because of this game. Not only the red card, with fans saying things like how he should wait until his own third to play defense, but he also makes the back line have to work twice as hard if he doesn’t.

The Sounders Also Rely Too Much On Their Midfield!

Performances from Vargas, Kent, and Rothrock earned deserved praise from fans. With Vargas’ 6.3 and Kent’s 6.5 match ratings being the two highest-rated Sounders players, it could’ve been better. The Sounders midfield is talented, but heavily relying on them leads them to be exposed by teams like the Whitecaps. They also have a talented attack and defense. Giving them more spotlight would be the smart adjustment to make. Thanks a bunch for reading!