The Seattle Sounders take on LA Galaxy on Wednesday (7:30 p.m. PT; Watch on CBS Sports Golazo Network) in the Round of 32 of the U.S. Open Cup. Here are three matchups to watch:
Cody Baker vs Dejan Joveljić
Sounders Academy product Cody Baker made his mark with the First Team after showcasing his talents in the Rave Green’s previous Open Cup match against San Diego Loyal and most recently in Sunday’s home match against Sporting Kansas City. Baker will need to stay connected with the center backs to help shut down the movement of LA Galaxy forward Dejan Jovelić on Wednesday night. The Serbian player has recorded 10 goals and five assists over the course of 26 career regular-season games.
Fredy Montero vs MartÃn Cáceres
Montero is no stranger to scoring goals in the U.S. Open Cup. In the previous round, he recorded a brace for the Sounders, marking his 9th and 10th goals since he first participated in the tournament early in his career. He currently sits as the all-time leading scorer in the U.S. Open Cup for the Rave Green. Montero will be going up against Martin Cáceres, one of LA Galaxy’s more prominent defenders who is known for representing Uruguay in four FIFA World Cups.
Josh Atencio vs Riqui Puig
Atencio has been a vital asset in the midfield since bursting onto the scene in 2021. The Bellevue native supports the team on the defensive end, while incorporating his technical and tactical attributes in the buildup the attack as well. He’ll be facing Galaxy midfielder Riqui Puig on Wednesday, who serves as a main component in the creation of dangerous goal scoring opportunities for the California squad. The Spanish midfielder was recently named to MLS Team of the Matchday for Week 9 after tallying a goal and an assist in La Galaxy’s 2-0 win over Austin FC.
