Seattle Sounders FC traveled to Minnesota and played like the home team in the first half, consistently building out of the back patiently, maintaining a clear advantage in possession, and comprehensively controlling the game. Granted, there have been plenty of Sounders matches in the past that have taken a similar tone, only for a goal to never materialize. João Paulo made sure that didn’t happen.
The second half shifted as Minnesota pushed to get back in the game. A penalty gave them a lifeline and led to a rather ragged finish. But hey, a win is a win, and the Sounders will take points on the road however they can get them.