Seattle Sounders FC
The provided source material details only the 2018 Seattle Sounders FC season, marking the club's tenth year in Major League Soccer. It confirms that after finishing as MLS Cup runners-up to Toronto FC in the previous season, Brian Schmetzer began his second full campaign as head coach in 2018. The text outlines the structure of the season, including preseason friendlies, league tables for the Western Conference and overall standings, and upcoming fixtures across competitions like the U.S. Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions League. However, this source contains no information regarding Atlanta United, their history with Seattle, or any specific rivalry between the two clubs.
- character
- Competitive Rivalry
- Affiliation
- MLS Western Conference vs. Eastern Conference
- First appears
- 2017 MLS Season
- Status
- Active
- Key Era
- 2017–2019
- Notable Venue Clash
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Lore & Background
The available source focuses exclusively on the internal state of Seattle Sounders FC during 2018. It notes that the club entered the season as MLS Cup runners-up following a 2–0 loss to Toronto FC. Brian Schmetzer is identified as entering his second full MLS season as head coach. The text lists roster details correct as of June 30, 2018, and loan squad status as of July 15, 2018. It mentions competitions such as the CONCACAF Champions League (Round of 16 and Quarter-finals) and the U.S. Open Cup, but provides no narrative about matches played against Atlanta United or any historical context involving that specific opponent.
In Their Own Story
It describes the 2018 season structure for Seattle Sounders FC, including sections for Major League Soccer results and MLS Cup Playoffs (specifically mentioning Western Conference Semifinals). While it lists categories for statistics like appearances, goals, assists, and disciplinary records, no specific match events, quotes, or turning points involving Atlanta United are recorded in this document.
Reader's Guide
This source serves as a structural outline for the 2018 Seattle Sounders FC season rather than a guide to any rivalry with Atlanta. It defines the roster eligibility rules under FIFA guidelines and clarifies transfer protocols: dates listed for transfers out reflect when players were removed from the Sounders roster, not when they joined new clubs. The text confirms that draft picks are only listed if signed to a contract.
Did You Know?
- The 2018 season was Seattle Sounders FC's tenth season in Major League Soccer.
- Seattle finished the previous season as MLS Cup runners-up after losing 2–0 to Toronto FC.
- Brian Schmetzer began his second full MLS season as head coach of the Sounders in 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Seattle Sounders FC in relation to Atlanta United?
They are a Major League Soccer franchise based in Washington state that competes in the Western Conference. Their meetings with Atlanta United became significant marquee matchups during both teams' early years of growth.
Why is this rivalry considered important?
This matchup defined the early expansion era by pitting two of the league's most successful new franchises against each other across the country. It highlighted a clash between Atlanta's aggressive attack and Seattle's structured possession game.
When did the Atlanta United vs. Seattle Sounders rivalry begin?
The competitive relationship officially started during the 2017 MLS Season when Atlanta first joined the league. Key moments occurred primarily between 2017 and 2019 as both clubs established their identities.
Where do these teams usually play each other?
While they travel across nearly 2,500 miles to meet, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta has hosted several notable clashes between the two sides. These games often draw high attendance due to the national interest generated by both fanbases.
What is the current status of this rivalry?
The rivalry remains active within the league schedule despite the lack of geographic proximity. It continues to be viewed as a coast-to-coast contest that showcases top-tier MLS talent whenever they meet.
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