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Cristian Roldan Shines, and Seattle Sounders Secure Playoffs with Determination

By Arthur Fernandes

TANGER MED, MOROCCO - FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Roldan of Seattle Sounders getting into the field during the FIFA Club World Cup Morocco 2022 2nd Round match between Seattle Sounders FC and Al Ahly SC at Stade Ibn-Batouta on February 4, 2023 in Tanger Med, Morocco. (Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
TANGER MED, MOROCCO - FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Roldan of Seattle Sounders getting into the field during the FIFA Club World Cup Morocco 2022 2nd Round match between Seattle Sounders FC and Al Ahly SC at Stade Ibn-Batouta on February 4, 2023 in Tanger Med, Morocco. (Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) /
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In an exhilarating night at Lumen Field, Cristian Roldan emerged as the unlikely hero for the Seattle Sounders FC, helping his team clinch a spot in the 2023 Audi MLS Cup playoffs. His story is a testament to resilience and passion for the sport, and Wednesday’s game against the LA Galaxy was a testament to his relentless determination.

Roldan, who battled persistent concussion issues throughout the season, watched most of his team’s games from the bench. However, when they needed him most, he answered the call with a game-winning goal in stoppage time, at the 96th minute. This moment of pure emotion was the culmination of a recovery journey he described as long and challenging.

Coach Brian Schmetzer spared no praise for Roldan, highlighting his versatility and ability to balance the team both in attack and defense. Roldan is not just a standout player; he is the missing piece in the Seattle Sounders’ puzzle.

TANGER MED, MOROCCO – FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Roldan of Seattle Sounders during the FIFA Club World Cup Morocco 2022 2nd Round match between Seattle Sounders FC and Al Ahly FC at Stade Ibn-Batouta on February 4, 2023 in Tanger Med, Morocco. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
TANGER MED, MOROCCO – FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Roldan of Seattle Sounders during the FIFA Club World Cup Morocco 2022 2nd Round match between Seattle Sounders FC and Al Ahly FC at Stade Ibn-Batouta on February 4, 2023 in Tanger Med, Morocco. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images) /

In addition to Roldan’s stellar performance, Seattle Sounders’ return to the playoffs after a notable absence in the previous year is a significant milestone. This team, which had secured the historic Concacaf Champions League title in May 2022, was determined not to be excluded again. The passion and commitment of the group were evident in the celebration after the victory.

The prospect of hosting playoff games at home is also a crucial advantage for the Seattle Sounders. The passionate support of their fans is a force that can propel the team towards victory. Jordan Morris emphasized the importance of playing at home in the playoffs, and the team is eager to give their fans even more reasons to celebrate.

Cristian Roldan’s return and the Sounders’ playoff qualification represent an inspiring story of overcoming adversity and resilience in the sport. This is the kind of tale that reminds us why we love soccer and how it can unite a city and a community around their local heroes. As the Seattle Sounders advance to the playoffs, the fans’ eyes are filled with hope and excitement, eager to see what the future holds for this determined team.

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