The Seattle Sounders are taking on Spanish giants Atlético Madrid at Lumen Field on Thursday (3 p.m. PT; Watch free on DAZN.com | TICKETS) on Matchday 2 of Group B of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage. Here are three matchups to watch:
Jon Bell vs. Julián Álvarez
Atlético has a trio of elite talent up front led by Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann, who started in Diego Simeone’s 4-4-2 on Matchday 1, as well as Alexander Sørloth, whose 20 goals last season was good for fourth in La Liga. Álvarez is the fastest and most agile of the bunch, capable of operating in tight windows and awkward angles with the slightest bit of leverage. Bell is the quickest of the Sounders’ center back options, so keeping the Argentine international and 2022 FIFA World Cup winner at bay will be a massive step toward Seattle earning a result.
Obed Vargas vs. Rodrigo De Paul
What a test for the talented 19-year-old central midfielder Vargas, who performed like a “super talent” on Matchday 1 against Botafogo. The Mexican international was fantastic alongside running mate Cristian Roldan, and he’ll need to be up to the task again opposite De Paul. Álvarez’s international teammate, the 31-year-old De Paul is one of the best central midfielders in Spain’s top flight, so limiting his influence in progressing the ball will be a huge point of emphasis on Thursday.
Ryan Kent vs. Marcos Llorente
After being held fairly in check against Botafogo, Sounders left winger Kent will be eager to make an impact on Matchday 2. The Englishman is no stranger to big moments against premier competition — he started an UEFA Europa League Final for Rangers — and he brings a flair down the flank that has been useful in the Sounders’ attack since he joined earlier this season. He’ll likely be lined up against Llorente, a Spanish international and Real Madrid Academy product who’s an attack-minded fullback and one of the fastest players in Europe. In 2021, he set the La Liga speed record for the season while sprinting back to defend a counter.
