Colorado vs Seattle Sounders Starting XI: Roldan with Armband, De Rosario at No. 9

The Colorado vs Seattle Sounders matchup kicks off the 2026 MLS season at Lumen Field. Seattle begin the campaign with high expectations after a strong home record last year.

Head coach Brian Schmetzer named his starting XI with Cristian Roldan wearing the captain’s armband. De Rosario leads the line at No. 9 as the Sounders unveil their refreshed attacking setup.

Seattle Build Around Veteran Core

Seattle enter the new season with a familiar foundation. Cristian Roldan, Jordan Morris, and Albert Rusnak remain central to the club’s identity.

Pedro de la Vega adds creativity in advanced areas. Meanwhile, U.S. international Jesus Ferreira strengthens the forward unit with mobility and pressing intensity. The team has shifted away from the Raul Ruidiaz era toward a more fluid, combination-based attack.

One major offseason change saw Obed Vargas transfer to Atletico Madrid. That move forced Seattle to adjust its midfield structure while maintaining experience around Roldan and Rusnak.

Additionally, the Sounders signed free-agent midfielder Hassani Dotson. The Federal Way native made 176 appearances for Minnesota United and adds depth and versatility.

Strong Home Record Favors Seattle

Seattle’s dominance at home gives them an early advantage in this Colorado vs Seattle Sounders clash. Since joining MLS in 2009, the Sounders hold a 16-2-3 record at Lumen Field against the Rapids.

Last season, Seattle went 10-1-6 at home in MLS play. The club also posted a 15-1-7 record against North American opponents at Lumen Field. Their lifetime 68.88% regular-season home winning percentage ranks third-best in MLS history.

However, recent meetings have been tighter. In their previous two trips to Seattle, Colorado earned draws, highlighted by a dramatic 3-3 comeback after falling behind by three goals.

Colorado Enter With New Identity

Colorado arrive with significant roster turnover. The Rapids traded longtime homegrown midfielder Cole Bassett, signaling a shift toward a younger core.

Forward Dante Sealy joins after a career year. Defensive midfielder Hamzat Ojediran adds ball-winning strength in the center of the park. Australian center back Lucas Herrington and several SuperDraft picks highlight the club’s youth-focused rebuild.

The Rapids finished 11th in the Western Conference last season and missed the playoffs. In contrast, Seattle ended 2025 in fifth place with 55 points before falling to Minnesota United in Round One of the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Tactical Outlook and Prediction

Seattle’s structure and home-field advantage give them the edge in this Colorado vs Seattle Sounders season opener. Their experienced core and attacking adjustments should provide balance and control.

Still, Colorado’s youthful energy and tactical reset could keep the match competitive for long stretches. If the Rapids stay compact defensively, they may frustrate Seattle early.

Prediction: Seattle 2-1 Colorado.

Conclusion

The Colorado vs Seattle Sounders opener marks the start of a new chapter for both clubs. Seattle rely on experience, strong home form, and a refreshed attack led by Roldan and De Rosario.

Colorado begin a transitional season built on youth and roster reshaping. While the Rapids aim to surprise, Seattle’s consistency at Lumen Field positions them as favorites to begin 2026 with three points.

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