Seattle Sounders FC saw their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup hopes dashed with a 3-1 defeat to Spanish giants Atlético Madrid at Lumen Field on Thursday.
The Group B result mathematically eliminates the Rave Green from reaching the knockout rounds, having also dropped their group-stage opener vs. Brazilian side Botafogo, 2-1, last Sunday.
Atlético drew first blood in the 11th minute via midfielder Pablo Barrios, who finished off a transition opportunity by smashing a first-time shot off the crossbar and into the net. The LaLiga powerhouse doubled that advantage just after the second-half kickoff via a tally from Alex Witsel, who nodded home after Marcos Llorente rattled the woodwork.
Seattle got a brief lifeline via a 50th-minute goal from Albert Rusnák, but the hosts' comeback hopes were extinguished just five minutes later, as Barrios completed his brace with a cushioned finish from inside the penalty area.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Much like against Botafogo, Seattle had some decent chances in attack, but a lack of clinical finishing and multiple defensive miscues proved decisive. The Rave Green can take pride in going toe-to-toe with one of the world's best clubs, something they'll look to do again when they face UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain in their Group B finale on Monday.
- MOMENT OF THE GAME: Atlético made an early statement of their quality with a fantastic strike from Barrios.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: With his opener setting the tone, and his second goal putting the match away, Barrios is the obvious pick.
