With a squad depleted by international play and injury Brian Schmetzer will play his kids in the first friendly of the season. Club Necaxa does not have that issue. The Seattle Sounders will likely see the best the Thunderbolts have to offer.
Schmetzer and staff conducted all the video prep as if this were a competitive match. That should help when the depth is tested in future league matches. They can look back at what it means to be in the 18 and how to behave. Every healthy Sounder will be in today’s “18.” Some Academy talents may fill out the roster as well.