The Seattle Sounders visit the Columbus Crew on Saturday (4:30 p.m. PT; JOEtv, YouTube TV, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM) in Week 18 MLS action. Here are three matchups to watch, presented by Toyota.
Brad Smith vs. Harrison Afful
Seattle and Columbus both prioritize chance creation from the flanks. The difference, though, is the type of service that each team utilizes. The Sounders like to create overloads in different areas of the pitch before entering the ‘optimal assist zones’ for a box-cross on the ground. Columbus, on the other hand, tends to go for quantity over quality, pumping in around 25 crosses per game, most of which come from a more withdrawn position.