Seattle Sounders vs Atlético Madrid – Club World Cup 2025
📅 Date: June 19, 2025
🏟️ Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle
🌍 Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025 – Group B
🧨 Final Score
Seattle Sounders 1 – 3 Atlético Madrid
🔥 Match Summary
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Early Lead: Atlético struck first in the 11th minute through a clinical finish by Pablo Barrios. Seattle’s defense was caught flat-footed by Atlético’s sharp pressing and swift build-up play.
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Doubling the Advantage: Early in the second half, Axel Witsel added a second goal with a well-timed strike from just outside the box, catching the keeper wrong-footed.
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Seattle Strikes Back: In the 50th minute, Albert Rusnák pulled one back with a well-placed shot into the bottom corner after a rare Atlético mistake.
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Game-Sealing Goal: Just minutes later, Barrios scored again, finishing a fast break to complete his brace and secure a confident 3–1 win for the Spanish giants.
⭐ Key Performers
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Pablo Barrios (Atlético): Two goals, smart movement, and composure under pressure.
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Axel Witsel: Controlled the tempo and added a crucial goal.
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Albert Rusnák (Seattle): Showed poise and technical skill to give his team hope.
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João Félix & Koke (Atlético): Orchestrated midfield play, contributing heavily to transitions and ball retention.
🧠 Tactical Breakdown
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Atlético’s Discipline: Classic Diego Simeone football—tight lines, rapid counters, and total midfield control.
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Seattle’s Fight: They showed real heart, pressing higher in the second half and trying to unsettle Atlético’s rhythm.
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Midfield Battle: Atlético dominated early, but Seattle found pockets of space late in the game, showing they can compete at this level.
📊 Group Implications
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Atlético moves up the table and still needs a convincing win in their next match to guarantee a spot in the knockouts.
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Seattle, after two losses, are now out of contention but will play PSG next in a pride match.
🏁 Final Verdict
A clinical performance by Atlético Madrid, using their experience and tactical nous to dominate key phases of the match. Seattle Sounders, while outclassed early, fought back admirably, scoring a quality goal and testing their elite opponents. The Club World Cup format once again showcases the growing competitiveness of MLS sides on a global stage.
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