SEATTLE - The Seattle Sounders are gearing up for the next round of the Concacaf Champions Cup after decisively defeating Antigua GFC 3-1 at Lumen Field on Wednesday, advancing with a 6-2 aggregate score. This victory follows their earlier triumph against the Guatemalan side, whom they also beat 3-1 just last week.
The Sounders kicked off the match with gusto, as winger Pedro de la Vega wasted no time finding the back of the net. The Argentine opened the scoring in the 24th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant give-and-go with Jordan Morris, who played him through. Despite having his initial effort blocked, de la Vega quickly rebounded and slotted the ball past Antigua's goalkeeper Luis Morán.
Antigua, undeterred by the early setback, mounted pressure and managed to pull level right before halftime. A goal from José Gálvez initially ruled offside was upheld after video review, setting the score to 1-1 heading toward intermission. But the Sounders were quick to respond, and shortly after the break, Paul Arriola restored Seattle’s lead. The 53rd-minute goal came after Jesús Ferreira set him up beautifully inside the box, and Arriola coolly finished to make the score 2-1.
De la Vega, who has been on fire lately, added another goal at the 88th minute, sealing the win for Seattle. After receiving a perfect through ball from João Paulo, de la Vega fired home, emphasizing his impressive performance and securing his brace.
The Sounders' aggregate victory not only showcases their strength, but it also secures their spot against Liga MX’s Cruz Azul in the Round of 16. The first leg of this matchup will take place at Lumen Field on March 5 at 7:30 p.m. PT, with the second leg scheduled for March 11.
Andrew Thomas, Seattle's goalkeeper, played his part well throughout the match, managing to keep his net secure amid Antigua’s attempts to level the score again. His save on Dewinder Bradley’s looping header, which hit the crossbar late in the game, was particularly pivotal.
The win marks another step toward securing the Sounders' second continental title, demonstrating their potential at this stage of the competition. The club’s overall performance has been highlighted by the strong collaborations among players like Arriola and Ferreira, whose synergy has proven effective, especially as seen last week and again on Wednesday.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the next clash with Cruz Azul, as tickets for the match will soon be made available first to Season Ticket Members, and later to the general public. The growing momentum and enthusiasm surrounding the Sounders are palpable as they prepare for this next challenge.
Before they shift their focus to the Concacaf Champions Cup, the Sounders have one more important match to address — they will take on Real Salt Lake this Saturday, February 29, at 1:30 p.m. PT. This MLS matchup will serve as both preparation and necessary competition for players aiming to keep their form sharp as they eye another shot at continental glory.
With the latest victory, Seattle Sounders fans have reason to feel optimistic about their team's chances. Key players have demonstrated their abilities to perform when it matters most, and the Sounders have their eyes set on achieving greatness both nationally and internationally.
Antigua GFC displayed solid resilience but couldn’t keep up with Seattle’s attacking prowess. The Sounders will take this victory with them as they prepare for what lies ahead.
Seattle now finds itself not just progressing through the tournament, but also grappling with the high expectations from their devoted fan base. Can they continue this winning streak? Only time will tell, but for now, the Sounders are certainly on course to make their mark.