The tension was high at Lumen Field on Wednesday night as the Seattle Sounders squared off against Mexican giants Cruz Azul in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16. Both teams took the field determined to outdo the other, but despite their efforts, the match ended in a 0-0 draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
A Battle of Wills
The Sounders entered this match riding a 12-game unbeaten streak in the Champions League and Cup play since 2020. They were prepared to give it their all against a Cruz Azul team that finished at the top of the Liga MX Apertura and ranked sixth in the Clausura. This match marked an important moment as it was their first meeting in the MLS era, having faced off previously back in 1997, a match that Cruz Azul famously won 11-0.
Key Players’ Absences
- Cruz Azul left several star players at home, including the talented Giorgos Giakoumakis and Erik Lira.
- Reed Baker-Whiting was out for the Sounders due to a hamstring injury.
- Despite the absences, both teams showcased their skills on the pitch, determined to capitalize on the scoring opportunities that came their way.
Scoring Chances Galore
Throughout the match, the players fought hard to find the back of the net. Jordan Morris, one of the Sounders’ key attackers, had two golden opportunities: a powerful header that just flew over the goal and a shot that hit the post. Nouhou Tolo also came close with a header that rattled the crossbar early in the second half, but nothing found its way through the defenses as both teams remained scoreless.
Goalkeeping Excellence
Both goalkeepers were in top form, making crucial saves that kept their teams in the game. Stefan Frei of the Sounders earned his clean sheet with two impressive saves. On the other side, Kevin Mier also kept a clean slate for Cruz Azul, with one important save that helped maintain the draw. It was an evening where defenses ruled the night, showcasing the determination and skill of both defensive squads.
Match Statistics
| Statistics | Sounders | Cruz Azul |
|---|---|---|
| Shots on Goal | 11 | 4 |
| Corners | 6 | 3 |
| Fouls | 12 | 10 |
| Possession (%) | 57 | 43 |
Looking Ahead
With the match ending in a tie, both teams are now gearing up for the exciting second leg scheduled for next Tuesday in Mexico City, hosted at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario. The Sounders will look to capitalize on their defensive strengths, while Cruz Azul will aim to assert their dominance at home, seeking to outplay the Sounders and advance in the tournament. As both teams prepare, all eyes will be on the upcoming clash, promising another thrilling chapter in this intense rivalry.
This scoreless draw marks a significant moment for both teams. The Sounders maintained an impressive home unbeaten streak, while Cruz Azul recorded their first clean sheet against an MLS team since 2009. It sets the stage for a must-watch return match that promises to be packed with excitement and drama!
