Ship’s Log 3/11: This is why we do it

In just a few hours time, the Seattle Sounders will be putting their Concacaf Champions Cup hopes on the line with this evening’s Leg 2 clash at Cruz Azul.

This game is about as 50-50 a proposition as it gets. The Round of 16 series is currently in a scoreless deadlock after Leg 1 in Seattle, which was a bit of a disappointing result (a goal or two would have done wonders for their chances, and they played well enough to get at least one) – but it’s also one that gives them every chance to advance to the quarterfinals.

Seattle also have some positive vibes on their side. Their 5-2 demolition of LAFC in Matchday 3 was cathartic but also a necessary psychological boost after a tumultuous start to their season in league play. We’ll see if it ends up mattering, but I certainly feel much better about their chances down in Mexico coming off that performance than I would if they were going into this after, say, Matchday 2’s 2-0 defeat at Real Salt Lake.

The challenge in front of the team tonight shouldn’t be understated, and the pressure is immense. But that’s part of the fun of it. Talk to any player on the team, and I guarantee to a person they’ll tell you that getting to play in games like this is one of the best parts of playing the sport at this level.

Ultimately, in this tournament against an opponent like this, all you can ask for is a chance. This team has a golden opportunity in front of them. Now we get to see if they can capitalize on it.

After a highlight-reel first MLS goal that preceded his signing a first-team contract, Kalani Kossa-Rienzi is getting national attention, including from MLSsoccer.com's Charles Boehm in his Matchday 3 takeaways piece.
After that dominant effort vs. LAFC, Seattle also moved up to the No. 3 spot in the MLSsoccer.com Power Rankings.
An expert panel over at the Guardian gave their takeaways on Seattle’s win over LAFC and gave a look ahead to tonight’s CCC clash.
Jordan Morris’ history-making goal also got some shine nationally as he became the club’s all-time leading scorer.
Apple TV has featured Obed Vargas as a subject of their Gamechangers documentary series.

Catching up on Sounder at Heart

Here’s what you missed on the site this week.

Sounders

Next match: Tuesday, March 11 at Cruz Azul | Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 Leg 2 | 5:30 pm PT | FS1/ViX

Reign

Next match: Saturday, March 15 vs. Gotham FC | 7 pm PT | iON television

Defiance

Next match: Friday, March 14 at The Town FC | 7 pm PT | Apple TV