Seattle Sounders v Austin FC: Schmetzer Keen to Use Club World Cup Lessons
The Seattle Sounders returned to Major League Soccer (MLS) action with a commanding 2-0 victory over Austin FC at Lumen Field on Saturday, June 28, 2025, fresh off their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Head Coach Brian Schmetzer expressed enthusiasm about applying the lessons learned from the global tournament to elevate his team’s performance in the MLS season. The win showcased the Sounders’ resilience and ability to translate international experience into domestic success.
Despite going winless in their three Club World Cup matches, the Sounders faced top-tier global competition, which Schmetzer described as a valuable learning opportunity. “I was very pleased with the intensity that the players showed. That’s something we’re going to reinforce,” he said post-match. The team’s time at the Club World Cup, where they competed against some of the biggest names in soccer, bolstered their confidence and tactical discipline, evident in their performance against Austin FC.
The Sounders took the lead just before halftime and sealed the victory with a second goal in the closing stages, maintaining a clean sheet. Schmetzer highlighted the team’s intensity and strategic adjustments, crediting their ability to adapt under pressure. Key players like Cristian Roldan stood out, with fans noting his impactful presence. The coach also emphasized careful management of player fatigue and injuries post-tournament, with Alex Roldan even training at centerback to address squad depth.
This victory sets a positive tone for Seattle’s MLS campaign, with Schmetzer keen to build on the Club World Cup experience. As the first MLS team to qualify for the revamped tournament, the Sounders aim to carry their newfound resilience into future matches, starting with their next challenge.
