Fourteen teams are vying for this year’s MLS Cup, and the postseason features a single-elimination bracket, a first in the league’s 24-year history. The Sounders earned the No. 2 seed and will host seventh-seeded FC Dallas on Saturday at CenturyLink Field. Here’s a closer look at essential information to know heading into Seattle’s opening-round matchup:
Tale of the season
Seattle’s path to the playoffs wasn’t easy. Injuries, international call-ups and conceding 19 goals during a late-season stretch toyed with the Sounders’ standing in the Western Conference. The Sounders clinched the No. 2 seed with a 1-0 result against Minnesota United on Decision Day, meaning Seattle is guaranteed to be a host through the conference semifinals.