KANSAS CITY, KS (July 12, 2025) — In a thrilling Western Conference showdown, Seattle Sounders FC edged Sporting Kansas City 3–2 at Children’s Mercy Park, coming from behind to take all three points on the road.
Jordan Morris, making his first start since March, opened the scoring in the 15th minute, heading home a Paul Rothrock cross. It marked his 100th regular-season goal contribution (70 goals, 30 assists) for the club
Dejan Joveljic earned a penalty in the 67th minute, calmly dispatching the spot kick to reduce the deficit to 3–1.
In 90+6′, Santiago Muñoz added a second penalty for Sporting, pulling the match level momentarily at 3–2, but the comeback fell just short
Andrew Thomas, in for the concussed Stefan Frei, made seven crucial saves, while Sporting’s John Pulskamp denied four — yet couldn’t prevent the defeat, the Sounders extended their MLS unbeaten run to three matches, while Sporting saw a three-game unbeaten streak snapped
- In stoppage time, Seattle defender Nouhou Tolo received a straight red card after throwing the ball into the crowd and gesturing toward a fan over a refereeing decision during the penalty review.
Coach Brian Schmetzer lauded the early first-half onslaught, highlighting the squad’s resilience. Meanwhile, Sporting coach Kerry Zavagnin praised his side’s second-half fight but lamented conceding the decisive goals so early
Final Takeaway
Seattle’s clinical first-half performance and defensive commitment secured a vital road win, despite late drama and the red card. Sporting’s spirited fightback showcased grit but underscored the challenges of overcoming early deficits. This result reinforces Seattle’s playoff push as the summer stretch begins.
