Columbus Crew vs. Sounders: Statistical Preview of MLS Cup
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Max Aquino / Sounder at Heart
There are a nearly endless number of stories to tell through soccer statistics, even if one can’t choose the plot. Below, I’ve chosen three key points about Saturday’s final to discuss in the numbers.
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In the 33rd minute of the Columbus Crew’s match in Seattle, a [seeming] lifetime ago on March 7, Lucas Zelarayan cut inside from the left wing on a dribble around Sounders starting winger Miguel Ibarra, deftly avoiding a challenge from João Paulo before dropping the ball off to Artur in space at the top of the box. Xavier Arreaga closed down the central midfielder, snuffing out the chance at a long shot, but leaving the back line undermanned. Artur’s quick pass out to the right found Luis Diaz with ample space from starting left back Joevin Jones, who failed to block a low cross into the six-yard box. Yeimar Gomez Andrade stepped toward the near post with the rushing Zelarayan (with the still-tracking Ibarra left in the dust). The cross found the unmarked Gyasi Zardes at the far post, for a 1-0 lead to Columbus. Despite Nico Lodeiro’s absence (with João Paulo and Cristian Roldan essentially trading off CAM duty) Seattle had a number of good chances to equalize as the game progressed, including an Ibarra goal called back for offside by VAR. Nouhou entered as a sub in the 59th minute and earned a penalty off Harrison Afful’s arm in minute 79 that Raul Ruidiaz converted (after his first attempt was saved).