MLS Cup 2017: A 2016 rematch should make for an intriguing encounter
By Roy Emanuel
It all comes down to one game. And it’s a familiar pair of opponents.
The 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs have reached the last act, with Toronto FC and Seattle Sounders set to once again meet in the final. Last season’s edition saw Seattle lift the trophy on penalties, while many fans might be expecting a different outcome this time around.
The match is set to be played on Saturday (12/9), and certainly features interesting storylines. Despite the Sounders entering as the league title-holders, the pressure is firmly on the shoulders of Toronto and manager Greg Vanney.
The conference finals brought very different dynamics and scorelines for both the East and the West, with Seattle certainly looking the stronger of the two clubs.
The Western Conference champions dominated the Houston Dynamo in a 5-0 aggregate victory over two legs.
For the Reds, the road was not as easy at all. Columbus Crew SC pushed the Canadian side to the brink, with only a Jozy Altidore goal in the second leg delivering a 1-0 aggregate win.
For a team that set a new Major League Soccer record for points in a season this year (69), their postseason run has been somewhat flawed.
Toronto advanced from the Eastern Conference semi-finals on away goals in a 2-2 stalemate versus New York Red Bulls also.
Chasing history
The immense pressure for Vanney’s squad comes from not only capturing their first-ever MLS Cup title, but also establishing some history as well.
After their triumphs in the Canadian Championship and in the race for the Supporters’ Shield, Toronto would become the first MLS team to win a domestic treble with a victory over Seattle next weekend.
With the likes of Sebastian Giovinco and Michael Bradley ready to avenge 2016’s disappointment, the game promises to bring a dramatic conclusion to the league campaign.
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Seattle Sounders and star striker Clint Dempsey aim to add a second consecutive title to the trophy case on December 9th in the MLS Cup final. With a chance at accomplishing a historic objective, Toronto FC will be prepared to stop them at all costs.