The Sounders Kick Off the Season in Style: A Dramatic Opener Against the Rapids
A thrilling start to the 2026 MLS season! The Seattle Sounders FC set the tone with a commanding 2-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids in a game that had it all. From early injuries to controversial calls, this match kept fans on the edge of their seats from the very beginning.
The game began with a bang as Paul Rothrock, who came on as a substitute for the injured Jordan Morris, made an immediate impact. Rothrock's involvement was pivotal in both goals, showcasing his relentless work ethic and technical prowess. In the 15th minute, he provided a crucial assist to Albert Rusnák, who headed the ball into the corner of the net, leaving the Rapids goalkeeper with no chance. But here's where it gets controversial—the game was marred by lengthy stoppages and reviews, with referee Malik Badawi at the center of attention.
A potential Sounders goal was disallowed after a review, and then a red card was shown to Colorado's Noah Cobb for an elbow to Rothrock's head. But wait, there's more! The card was later downgraded to yellow after another review, causing frustration among the players and fans alike. The first half alone lasted a staggering 61 minutes, setting a potential record for the longest half in MLS history.
As the game progressed, the Sounders continued to dominate. In the 62nd minute, Rothrock sealed the deal with a powerful shot, assisted by Osaze De Rosario and Jesús Ferreira. But the drama didn't end there. The Sounders had to navigate through several challenges, including a collision that resulted in Hassani Dotson's concussion.
A game of contrasting fortunes! While the Sounders celebrated their victory, the Rapids were left to rue missed opportunities and controversial decisions. Andrew Thomas, Seattle's goalkeeper, was solid between the posts, making crucial saves to deny the Rapids a comeback. The Sounders' depth and resilience were on full display, with players like Rothrock, De Rosario, and Ferreira stepping up when it mattered most.
As the Sounders hit the road for their next fixture against Real Salt Lake, they'll be hoping to build on this impressive start. But the question remains: Can they maintain this momentum throughout the season? And will Jordan Morris and Hassani Dotson's injuries affect the team's performance in the long run? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the Sounders have shown they have the depth and determination to overcome any challenge that comes their way.
