Seattle Sounders Squander 2-Goal Lead in Draw Against LA Galaxy, Defense Under Fire
September 17, 2025
The Seattle Sounders played to a 2-2 draw against LA Galaxy, after initially leading 2-0, but failed to hold their advantage due to defensive lapses and passive moments.
Seattle demonstrated a strong offensive performance, controlling much of the game, creating numerous chances, and benefiting from the return of key players, yet their defense faltered at critical moments.
Goalkeeper Stefan Frei made crucial saves, including a reaction dive in the 58th minute, but was indirectly involved in the late goal due to an errant pass, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.
Attacking players such as Jesú́s Ferreira and Danny Musovski were active, with Ferreira scoring the opening goal and Musovski earning Man of the Match, though missed opportunities haunted the team.
Tactical adjustments included Frei returning after a concussion and Musovski coming back from suspension, while key players like Pedro de la Vega were sidelined by injury.
Midfielders Cristian Roldan and Obed Vargas contributed offensively and defensively, but decision-making lapses and fatigue contributed to LA’s equalizer.
Strategic substitutions in the second half, including Rusnák and Nouhou, aimed to secure the win but ultimately failed to close out the game.
Referee Mendoza’s inconsistent officiating, including questionable early yellow cards and uneven foul calls, added to Seattle’s frustrations.
Defensive lapses, especially LA Galaxy’s late goal in the 87th minute, were heavily criticized, with coach Brian Schmetzer describing it as a 'terrible' goal due to poor setup.
Seattle’s first goal came early in the fifth minute through a combination involving Alex Roldan and Musovski, who scored his 16th goal of the season.
Attendance was 31,952, significantly lower than their record-breaking Leagues Cup match, indicating a decline in spectator turnout.
The team’s defense struggled to maintain their lead, with issues in concentration and execution, leading to multiple points dropped this season in similar circumstances.
Looking ahead, Seattle will travel across the country for a rematch, emphasizing the need to address defensive vulnerabilities and sustain offensive momentum.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

The Seattle Times • Sep 14, 2025
Sounders draw with Galaxy after conceding 'terrible' late equalizer
Sounder at Heart • Sep 16, 2025
Realio’s Ratings: Agonizing