The Seattle Sounders’ unwavering determination has been a key factor in their success during the 2024 season. After a slow start—achieving just one victory in their first nine matches—the team rebounded impressively, finishing the second half of the campaign as the second most successful team in MLS with a record of 12 wins, 2 losses, and 3 draws. They accumulated 39 points over their final 17 matches, falling just two points short of Supporters’ Shield champions, Inter Miami CF.
In major league soccer, the Sounders have dominated nearly every significant statistic compared to the other 28 teams. Since joining MLS in 2009, they have achieved the highest total in points (847), wins (241), home victories (150), road wins (91), and playoff wins (24).
“You kind of expect that the Sounders will do okay, or will make the playoffs, or will make a push for a trophy,” commented goalkeeper Stefan Frei. “But again, that is all earned. Every game, home or away, you have to earn your points. You have to win every battle and every duel.”
Since their entry into Major League Soccer, the Sounders have accumulated an impressive eight major trophies, the most among any North American Topflight Sports League team in the 21st century. The NFL’s New England Patriots follow with six trophies won between 2001 and 2019.
The franchise, originally formed in the NASL, has fostered a legacy of five decades of continuous success—50 years of lofty goals to meet their high expectations. Today, the Sounders are firmly established as one of North America’s most successful soccer clubs.
As they prepare to host the Houston Dynamo on October 28 at Lumen Field for Game 1 of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, the team is focused on building upon their recent momentum.
“It just required some extra attention to detail during training, especially in the gym, along with a sense of unity as a group and adapting to some personnel and tactical changes,” explained defender Jackson Ragen. “Everything has paid off in the latter part of the season… The coaches have made some good adjustments, and ultimately, players have stepped up their game.”
The Sounders aim to maintain this positive energy as they enter the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, starting with their match against the Houston Dynamo in the first round of the best-of-three series on Monday night.
“There are no easy games in the playoffs, and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” said defender Alex Roldan. “Historically, our playoff record has been strong, and we hope to continue that success against some tough rivals.”
Among their eight trophies, the Sounders have won two MLS Cup titles. Despite a challenging regular season, the team embraces the “Sounders Never Quit” mentality, taking charge of their destiny as they head into postseason competition.
“We’re going into the playoffs with confidence and motivation to excel,” Roldan stated.
Their pursuit of a third MLS Cup appears to be on solid ground.