The Seattle Sounders host Real Salt Lake on Wednesday (7:00 p.m. PT; FS1, FOX Deportes, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM | TICKETS) in the Western Conference Semifinals of the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs. Here are three matchups to watch.
Gustav Svensson vs. Albert Rusnák
Whether Real Salt Lake attempts to absorb pressure and hit on the counter or dictate tempo through possession, their attack will flow through the feet of Rusnák. The 25-year-old attacking midfielder posted ten goals and five assists in 2019. A clever, highly-technical midfielder capable of testing ‘keepers from distance, Rusnák likes to receive the ball between the lines before dissecting opposing defenses.
He won’t be able to enjoy that same level of freedom in Seattle, though, as he’ll be closely monitored by Svensson. The Swedish No. 6 has been stellar in recent matches, providing a bit of steel in front of Seattle’s center backs. More importantly, if Svensson can get in a rhythm offensively, he’ll be able to play his signature cross-field diagonal passes to free Seattle’s wingers in transition.
Raúl Ruidíaz vs. Nick Rimando
Wednesday marks the final occasion in which Rimando, 40, will play at CenturyLink Field. RSL’s stalwart goalkeeper was impressive against the Portland Timbers in Round One, pulling off an unreal full-extension save to deny a knuckling effort from Sebastian Blanco. On top of his elite distribution, what sets Rimando apart is his footwork, often getting two or three load steps before taking flight.
Ruidíaz might be the perfect striker to face off against Rimando, as his quick release and powerful shooting technique can eliminate the marginal gains of the RSL keeper’s footwork. Look for the Peruvian to test Rimando early and often with shots from distance. With four goals and two assists from three starts in the postseason, Ruidíaz has proven he’s built for the big occasions.
Jordan Morris vs. Aaron Herrera
What’s left to say about Morris’ 2019 season? The Homegrown kid was named the MLS Comeback Player of the Year on Tuesday, an accolade he fully deserved with his ten goals and seven assists during the regular season. As if that wasn’t enough proof, he bagged the club’s first-ever postseason hat trick in the 4-3 win over FC Dallas on Saturday.
Herrera, a Homegrown RSL defender capable of lining up on either flank, will need to bring his A-game on Wednesday. Salt Lake doesn’t give up many chances in transition, but they also haven’t faced many wingers of Morris’ caliber. Look for Morris to isolate Herrera 1-v-1, drive into the primary assist zone and create chances for the likes of Ruidíaz, Nicolás Lodeiro and Cristian Roldan.
