The Seattle Sounders are itching at a chance to face LAFC again after suffering defeat in the Western Conference Semifinals last postseason.
Now, they have the opportunity to do just that when they kickoff the 2024 MLS Regular Season against the California side in Los Angeles on Feb. 24.
“I think we had what we needed to beat them last year,” said midfielder Josh Atencio. “But we've made changes and we've gotten better since then so I think all the guys are prepared and I definitely think it’s a game we should win.”
Roster moves were amongst the few changes implemented to improve the entirety of the team. Newcomer Pedro de la Vega is expected to fill the gaps on the offensive front while forward Danny Musovski and defenders Nathan and Jonathan Bell will be utilized as depth pieces to an already strong Sounders roster.
“We're excited for that competitive advantage that we have,” said midfielder Cristian Roldan. “We're in a good spot going forward.”
The way the team approached preseason is also something worth mentioning as they head into Matchday 1 this weekend.
“[Preseason] has honestly been better than most years just because we participated in a couple of 90 minute games, we've been together for quite some time and the guys came in fit,” said Roldan. “We have a few knocks but for the most part, we've had a pretty healthy group going into preseason and so now it's just a matter of shaking off that rust.”
With the combination of building off the defensive success from last year and honing in on the attacking components needed for this upcoming season, the Sounders are in a position to commence MLS play on a high note.
“The guys look good and they look sharp,” said Atencio. “We're dialing things in and ready to open the season.”
The players recognize the daunting task that awaits them in Los Angeles, but they remain confident in their abilities and recent preparations to spur them to victory on Saturday.
“We have a good game plan and I think we've done the things in the video room and out on the field that we need to do to kind of break them down and find ways to get the ball rolling,” said Atencio. “So if we execute on the weekend, I think we’ll have a good chance.”
