Date, Time, Predicted Lineups & MLS Prediction
The 2026 MLS season continues with a Western Conference showdown as the Seattle Sounders vs Colorado Rapids on Saturday, February 22, 2026, at 7:30 PM PT (10:30 PM ET). The match will be played at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington.
Seattle will look to start their home campaign strongly in front of their passionate crowd, while Colorado aims to begin the new season with a positive away result.
This matchup is important for both clubs early in the season. Seattle return with a largely unchanged core from last year and strong ambitions after recent silverware. At the same time, Colorado arrive under a new coaching approach and youthful squad hoping to impress in the opening weeks.
Seattle Sounders vs Colorado Rapids Team News, Date, Time, Predictions, Lineups & More
- Tournament: MLS 2026 Regular Season
- Date: 22 February 2026
- Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle, USA
- Kick-off: 9:15 PM ET / 6:15 PM PT / 7:45 AM IST (23 Feb)
- Live Streaming: Apple TV – MLS Season Pass worldwide
Match Preview
This classic Western Conference matchup highlights Seattle’s home crowd and structured pressing, which will challenge Colorado’s counter-attacking strategy.
Expect the Sounders to control possession and create chances through the wings, while the Rapids look to sit deep and hit on the break.
The cold and rainy weather in Seattle may contribute to a physical, low-scoring game.
Seattle Sounders
Seattle head into the match confident after a solid preseason and will look to impose their style at home.
Under coach Brian Schmetzer, the Sounders are coming off a strong 2025 campaign and look to start 2026 with momentum at home. Key players like Jordan Morris, Cristian Roldan, and Nicolás Lodeiro (if still with the club) are expected to feature.
No major new injuries reported, though the squad is monitoring fitness after preseason. Seattle has historically been dominant at Lumen Field, especially in early-season home games.
Colorado Rapids
Colorado begins the season with fresh tactical ideas and a youthful squad eager to prove itself.
The Rapids finished mid-table in 2025 and enter the new season with a mix of experience. Coach Chris Armas will rely on forwards like Djordje Mihailovic and Rafael Navarro.
The team has struggled on the road in recent seasons (poor away record), which could be a major factor at Lumen Field.
Head-to-Head Record
Seattle has a strong record against Colorado, winning 12 of the last 18 meetings. At Lumen Field, the Sounders are particularly dominant (8 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss in the last 12 home games against the Rapids).
- Seattle has not lost in their last seven meetings with Colorado.
- Several recent encounters between the sides have ended in draws, highlighting how closely matched they can be.
- Total meetings: 10
- LA Galaxy wins: 4
- NYCFC wins: 5
- Draws: 1
Seattle Sounders vs Colorado Rapids Predicted XI Lineups
- Seattle Sounders (4-2-3-1): Frei; A. Roldan, Gómez, Ragen, Tolo; Vargas, Paulo; Morris, Lodeiro, De la Vega; Musovski.
- Colorado Rapids (4-2-3-1): Steffen; Rosenberry, Maxsø, Abubakar, Bassett; Acosta, Mihailovic; Ronan, Cabral, Harris; Navarro.
Key Players to Watch
- Seattle Sounders:
- Jordan Morris – Pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat.
- Albert Rusnák – A creative hub who links midfield and attack.
- Colorado Rapids:
- Zack Steffen – Experienced goalkeeper capable of big saves.
- Rafael Navarro – Main attacking outlet for goals and hold-up play.
Match Prediction
Seattle is a strong favorite at home. Their defensive solidity and attacking options should give them the edge, although Colorado is capable of scoring on the counter. Expected: over 2.5 goals and both teams to score.
- Seattle Sounders 2-1 Colorado Rapids
Where to Watch Seattle Sounders vs Colorado Rapids
- USA: Live on Apple TV (MLS Season Pass) with English and Spanish commentary.
- Kickoff: 7:30 PM PT / 10:30 PM ET
- UK/Europe: Apple TV global broadcast
- Highlights and full replay available on Apple TV and MLS.