The Seattle Sounders are taking on Minnesota United on Sunday in their second meeting of the season. Here are three matchups to watch:
Raúl Ruidíaz vs. Brent Kallman
Ruidíaz feasted on Kallman in the 2021 season-opener to the tune of a brace in a 4-0 romp at Lumen Field. The Loons may be without starting center backs Bakaye Dibassy and Michael Boxall due to injury, which means Ruidíaz should have several opportunities come his way as he looks to reclaim first place in the MLS Golden Boot race. He’s currently tied with the LA Galaxy’s Javier “Chicharito” Hernández with 10 on the season.
João Paulo vs. Emanuel Reynoso
Like he’s done all season, João Paulo will need to dominate the center of the park, especially in trying to shut down Reynoso. The Argentine is one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers, and it will be up to João Paulo to neutralize his impact on the ball. The Brazilian will need to have a massive match, especially considering he’ll likely be next to teenagers Josh Atencio and Danny Levya in midfield because…
Kelyn Rowe vs. Franco Fragapane
Rowe, who scored his first Sounders goal last week and who has been a productive performer in midfield, will likely slot into right wingback on Sunday in the place of Alex Roldan, who is away with El Salvador at the Concacaf Gold Cup. Rowe is a capable fill-in fullback, but he’ll need to be on his game defensively against new winger signing Fragapane, who already has two goals in three assists in just five matches since joining the Loons from Argentina’s Talleres.
