Three matchups to watch when the Sounders host St. Louis CITY in battle for top of West

The Seattle Sounders return to their fortress at Lumen Field on Saturday to host expansion side St. Louis CITY SC (7:30 p.m. PT; Watch free on Apple TV | TICKETS). The MLS newcomers started off their first campaign in historic fashion, winning five straight matches, and currently sit first in the Western Conference. Here are three matchups to watch:

Jackson Ragen vs. João Klauss

Jackson Ragen has come into his own this season, becoming a main component in the Sounders defense. He currently leads the team in blocks with 13, while also contributing to three tackles won and six interceptions over the course of six games. He’ll be going up against St. Louis City’s Joāo Klauss, who currently ranks second in MLS for most goals this season with five.

Joāo Paulo vs. Eduard Löwen

While midfielder Joāo Paulo has impacted the past six games in more ways than one, his defensive abilities have become a crucial part in preventing scoring opportunities for opponents. The Brazilian enforcer leads the team in both interceptions (12) and tackles won (9). João Paulo will need to be aware of St. Louis’ Eduard Löwen on Saturday as he is someone the visitors rely on in the build-up of the attack. Löwen is currently tied for second in MLS for most assists with four.

Léo Chú vs. Kyle Hiebert

Léo Chú has broken out as one of the more productive attackers in the league in limited minutes this season after recording four assists against Sporting Kansas City and a goal and an assist against LA Galaxy. His contributions have put him in the No. 1 position for most assists in MLS. Léo Chú will be battling it out against defender Kyle Hiebert on Saturday, who is also having a breakout season with the new expansion team. Not only was he recently named to the Canadian Men’s National Team Final roster, he has also supported St. Louis to five victories this season with six tackles won, eight blocks and eight interceptions.