Seattle Sounders x Chicago Fire

In a dramatic showdown at Lumen Field, the Seattle Sounders rallied to defeat the Chicago Fire 2-1, thanks to two crucial penalties from Albert Rusnák, including a last-gasp winner in stoppage time. Maren Haile-Selassie initially put the Fire ahead in the 30th minute, but the Sounders' relentless pursuit saw them clinch their seventh win of the season.

The match began with high intensity, as Chicago's Brian Gutiérrez nearly set up an early goal for Haile-Selassie, only for Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei to make a vital leg save. Haile-Selassie eventually broke the deadlock in the 30th minute, spinning past Jackson Ragen and firing a shot past Frei. Seattle's first significant opportunity came just before halftime, with Rusnák setting up Jordan Morris for a near-post strike that was well-saved by Chris Brady.

The Sounders' equalizer came in the 57th minute after a VAR review awarded them a penalty for a hold on Paul Rothrock by Jonathan Dean. Rusnák confidently converted from the spot. Seattle continued to press for the lead, with João Paulo narrowly missing the target twice in quick succession. Despite another penalty being overturned by VAR, and Frei making a crucial save to deny Allan Arigoni, the Sounders' persistence paid off in stoppage time. A foul on Morris by Mauricio Pineda led to Rusnák's second successful penalty, securing a thrilling comeback victory.

This win marks the third consecutive match where Seattle has overturned a deficit, demonstrating their resilience. The Sounders have now gained seven points from losing positions, including two last-minute home wins in as many weekends, solidifying their reputation as a team that never gives up.

[Photography by Alejandro Sanchez Ochoa]