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First Thoughts
This match against the Sounders is definitely going to be one of, if not the biggest match of the season so far. If the Whitecaps want to keep pace with the likes of the Timbers, RSL and FC Dallas, this game will be crucial. Another significant aspect is that it is vital with respect to the Cascadia Cup standings. The Sounders currently hold 4 Cascadia points, while the Whitecaps have 1. If Vancouver were to get the victory over Seattle, they would leapfrog Portland and go into first place.
The Caps have met the Sounders 6 times since they joined the league back in 2011. In those matches, they have a record of 3 draws and 3 losses, but still remain winless. The Whitecaps have conceded a whopping 12 goals in those 6 games giving them a goals against average of 2.00. At the same time, they have only managed to score a measly 7 in return, that making for a 1.16 goals per game average.
Keep Thinking
Looking back at MLS clashes between Vancouver and Seattle from the past, a lot of the games have something in common. They have all been extremely entertaining to watch, and why is that? There are a lot of goals scored, that is why. Even the match between these two sides earlier in the season was riveting from kickoff to the final whistle.
Both the Whitecaps and Sounders have a number of dangerous attackers and are both capable of notching quite a few goals. One notable mention definitely has to be Camilo Sanvezzo. He is having the best season of his career thus far and currently sits second in league scoring with 10 goals. The Sounders also have a dangerous forward of their own in Obafemi Martins. The ex-La Liga and back-flipping striker has 6 goals on the season, so far in only 10 games played. Martins will definitely be a force to be reckoned with and the Caps' back line must beware.
In The End
If there is one thing we know from these Cascadia Cup matches, they are usually extremely exciting matches. This one will surely live up to all the hype with plenty of goals and emotion out on the pitch. BC Place has officially sold out, so the atmosphere there will be second to none for the Whitecaps. With the massive crowd behind them and their recent great form, expect the Caps to come out strongly. There will likely be quite a few goals and the action will carry on from minute 1 all the way to minute 90. Look for the Whitecaps to pull out a narrow victory over the Sounders.
Prediction
Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – Seattle Sounders 1
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