Chicago Fire Vs Seattle Sounders: 3 things we learned – Massive win for Men in Red

1. Reasons to worry for Seattle?

The MLS Cup defending Seattle Sounders have just one point from their opening two games of the competition. After a 0-0 draw against the San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle were hoping to pick up some more points in this game. However, they never really got into the contest and rarely looked especially dangerous.

Despite having most of the ball throughout, Brian Schmetzer’s side failed to do much with the possession they had. They settled for easy passes in the midfield on too many occasions, not putting enough pressure on the Fire backline. The Sounders did equalize when they finally pushed the envelope, especially out wide, they found the equalizer.

Defensive issues also cost them. Beric’s goal came from some woeful defending as Xavier Arreaga made a meal of a simple long ball hit his way, missing his clearance and letting the opposing forward in behind. Things were even worse on the second goal. The marking on the corner was dreadful with Pineda left wide open at the back post.

As a result, Seattle needs to beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in their final group stage game if they want any chance of a place in the knockout stages. If they can’t and are eliminated this early, it will be a massive disappointment.