The Seattle Sounders will commence their 2023 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs campaign on Monday, Oct. 30 when they host FC Dallas at Lumen Field in the first leg of a best-of-three series in Round One.
The Rave Green solidified the No. 2 seed of the Western Conference after defeating St. Louis CITY SC 2-0 on the road on Decision Day, earning the Seattle squad home-field advantage against seventh-ranked FC Dallas – a team with whom they share ample history in the postseason.
With the opportunity to kickstart the postseason at home, the players and coaches are confident they can use the energy from fans in Lumen Field as a catalyst for a deep playoff run and the chance to secure another MLS Cup title.
“We're definitely leaning on the fans\] as a support system,” said defender [Alex Roldan.
The fans will play a vital role in shaping the Sounders’ success in the postseason. Ultimately, the players on the pitch will determine their own destiny, but the unwavering support from fans in the stands will be critical in propelling the team forward into the next rounds.
“Just like for the Seahawks, [the fans] are the 12th man,” said Roldan.
Lumen Field has a well-earned reputation as a difficult place to play for opposing teams, with the boisterous crowd that fills the stadium. And the team will need the fans to bring that same energy beginning Monday.
“We're going to count on them when momentum switches because it will switch into playoffs…it's inevitable,” said Roldan.
Round One won’t be the only time for the fans to showcase their spirit. If the Sounders surpass FC Dallas in the best-of-three series, they’ll have the chance to compete in front of their home crowd up until the Western Conference Final.
“I think us finishing the way we did to maximize our home field advantage is going to be so crucial through the playoffs,” said midfielder Josh Atencio. “I wouldn't want to be any team coming to Lumen and trying to beat us.”
The players on the pitch, alongside the fans in the stands is the essential combination that'll bring home a third MLS Cup trophy to the city of Seattle — Together as One.
Playoff Tickets On Sale Now
Playoff tickets for our Round One match against FC Dallas on October 30 are on sale now! Want to be notified when playoff tickets go on sale for future rounds should we advance? Sign up for ticket on-sale alerts below.
