Seattle Sounders FC

vs

21:00:00

Columbus Crew

Match Preview: Seattle Sounders vs. Columbus Crew - prediction, team news and lineup

Set for May 7, Seattle Sounders host Columbus Crew at Lumen Field in what promises to be a pivotal early-season clash. Seattle arrives in solid form, fresh off a narrow 1–0 win over San Diego FC and coming off a convincing 5–2 triumph against LAFC—an emotional boost following years of frustration against them. Columbus, meanwhile, have been inconsistent: a mixed run of draws and losses, including a frustrating 0–0 draw with Houston highlighted Columbus’ struggle to finish without star forward Cucho Hernández.

Head to Head

Historically, these two showcase a competitive rivalry. Across 19 encounters, Columbus have 5 wins to Seattle’s 9, with 5 draws in between, and a slim goal advantage: 30 to 22 in Seattle’s favour . Recent data (16 most recent meetings) shows Seattle winning 7, Columbus 5, and 4 draws—with 13 of those fixtures seeing over 1.5 goals. Expect an open affair with both sides likely to test defences.

Team News

Seattle have endured midfield disruptions: Paul Arriola is sidelined long-term with an ACL tear, and Jordan Morris is nursing a hamstring injury—both reported out mid-February. However, the squad remains deep; the emergence of youth like Jesús Ferreira and veteran Paul Rothrock gives them creative alternatives

Columbus continue life without Cucho Hernández, who departed in winter. Jacen Russell-Rowe has stepped up but remains streaky—Columbus struggled to convert 64% possession into meaningful chances against Houston. The anticipated arrival of a new designated player (linked to Palmeiras' “Flaco” López) hasn't materialized yet. The forward line remains the Crew’s key concern.

Key Players

• Seattle Sounders: Paul Rothrock and Jesús Ferreira have taken on greater attacking responsibility in Arriola’s and Morris’ absence. Their creativity and link play through midfield will be decisive.

• Columbus Crew: Jacen Russell‑Rowe shoulders the creative and goalscoring burden. His touches between the lines are vital, though finishing consistency will define Crew’s outcome .

This showdown promises a tactical chess match: Seattle’s adaptability will be tested without key attackers, while Columbus need attacking flair from their replacements. The H2H history suggests goals abound, and both squads crave positive momentum.