KC Reporter

Sporting Kansas City is set to face the Seattle Sounders in a retro-themed night on Saturday, July 12, at Children's Mercy Park. The match will be a clash between two significant rivals as Sporting celebrates the 25th anniversary of their MLS Cup victory. The event promises an energetic atmosphere with players from the 2000 team and a passionate crowd.

Sporting comes into the game following a strong performance in their last match, securing a 2-1 win against the Colorado Rapids on July 4. Dejan Joveljić scored early for Sporting, while Erik Thommy played a crucial role as captain by assisting the first goal and scoring another himself. John Pulskamp made key saves and contributed to the winning goal with an excellent goal kick.

Both Thommy and Pulskamp were recognized among the top 20 players in the MLS Team of the Week presented by Audi. Currently, Sporting stands in eleventh place in the Western Conference standings with 23 points.

The Seattle Sounders arrive at Children's Mercy Park holding fifth place in the Western Conference with 30 points. Despite being eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup, Seattle showed impressive moments on the field. In their last regular-season match, they drew 1-1 against Columbus Crew at Lumen Field, with Paul Rothrock scoring to secure a point.

Seattle will be without two key players for this match. Kalani Kossa-Rienzi received a red card in stoppage time and will miss out against Sporting. Goalkeeper Stephen Frei is also sidelined due to injury but is recovering well according to team communications; however, he remains out due to concussion protocol.

Despite these lineup changes, Seattle still boasts talented players and maintains a balanced team that poses threats both offensively and defensively. Sporting will need to capitalize on these opportunities and use home conditions to their advantage.

Catch all the action when Sporting takes on Colorado Rapids this Friday, July 4 at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park. Stay updated with news and coverage in your language on our website ES.SportingKC.com.