Seattle Sounders FC hosted the Colorado Rapids on Sunday, February 22, 2026, kicking off their 2026 MLS campaign at Lumen Field. As of the 58th minute, the Sounders lead 1-0, with a significant crowd in attendance as the team prepares for a monumental year that includes hosting matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match marks the beginning of a crucial period for the Sounders, with this home game being their only fixture at Lumen Field until April 12 due to ongoing stadium updates in preparation for the World Cup. Following Sunday’s contest, the team will embark on a six-game road trip, making this weekend particularly essential for the Seattle side. The game is being broadcast on FS1, Apple TV, SiriusXM FC 157, 93.3 KJR FM, and El Rey 1360 AM.
Matchday Atmosphere at Lumen Field
Lumen Field has turn into a landmark venue for Seattle Sounders FC, hosting significant victories including the 2019 MLS Cup and the 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup title. Most recently, the stadium saw the Sounders secure the first-ever Leagues Cup trophy in 2025 with a 3-0 win over Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in front of 70,000 fans. The stadium also played host to matches during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and will host six matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer, as reported by SoundersFC.com.
Midfielder Cristian Roldan emphasized the importance of the home crowd, stating, “The energy of the crowd contributes to such a good environment for big moments, big games. Anytime we have a big game, our fans are ready for it, our fans are loud and our players feed off that.” This sentiment underscores the significance of establishing a strong matchday experience at Lumen Field as the city prepares to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup.
Colorado Rapids Begin 2026 Campaign on the Road
For the Colorado Rapids, this match represents the start of their 2026 MLS season under recent Head Coach Matt Wells. Wells joined the club after spending over two seasons on the coaching staff at Tottenham Hotspur F.C., where he helped the club win the 2024-25 Europa League title, marking their first European title since 1984. Alongside Wells are new Assistant Coaches Rob Burch and Alastair Harris, bringing extensive European soccer experience to the Rapids, according to ColoradoRapids.com.
The Rapids have also seen significant roster changes during the offseason, acquiring forward Dante Sealy in a trade with CF Montréal, and signing defensive midfielder Hamzat Ojediran from RC Lens of Ligue 1. Australian center back Lucas Herrington, forward Bryce Jamison, MLS SuperDraft Pick Donavan Phillip, and former Rapids 2 midfielder Sydney Wathuta have also joined the team this season. The Rapids are looking to build on a historic 3-3 draw against the Sounders last July.
Travel Considerations for Fans
Sound Transit is advising fans attending the match to plan ahead for potential travel delays and increased crowds in stations, on trains, and in parking facilities. Parking facilities are expected to fill up quickly, and fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking, as noted by Sound Transit. The kickoff time is 6:15 p.m. PT.
Fans can also watch the match on Apple TV, Altitude Sports Radio, Tico Sports Spanish Radio, and ColoradoRapids.com, as well as the Colorado Rapids app.
As the second half progresses, the Sounders maintain a narrow lead, setting the stage for a potentially exciting finish. The outcome of this match will undoubtedly set the tone for both teams as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 2026 MLS season and prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup events at Lumen Field.
What are your predictions for the remainder of the match? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
