The Seattle Sounders face a daunting task as they prepare to host Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in their final group stage match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ on Monday, June 23rd. The match, set to kick off at 12 p.m. PT at Lumen Field in Seattle, represents a clash between the reigning MLS side and the star-studded French champions.
The Stakes
For the Seattle Sounders, the path to the knockout stage is narrow, requiring a near miracle. They must defeat PSG by at least three goals while also relying on Botafogo to upset Atlético Madrid. Any other result will see them eliminated from the tournament. The Sounders have struggled in their opening matches, losing 2-1 to Botafogo and 3-1 to Atlético Madrid. Despite these defeats, they have shown glimpses of promise, with Albert Rusnák scoring against Atlético Madrid and Cristian Roldan finding the net against Botafogo.
PSG's situation is more straightforward. A win against Seattle will guarantee their place in the Round of 16, potentially as group winners. Even a draw could be enough, depending on the outcome of the Atlético Madrid vs. Botafogo match. However, a loss to the Sounders would complicate matters significantly. PSG enters the match following a surprising 1-0 defeat to Botafogo, a result that ended their impressive 19-game scoring streak. Prior to that, they showcased their dominance with a 4-0 victory over Atlético Madrid, demonstrating their attacking prowess.
Team News & Form
Seattle Sounders' coach Brian Schmetzer faces a challenging task in motivating his team for this uphill battle. Center back Yeimar Gómez has been carrying a knock and his availability remains uncertain. Other potential absentees include Stuart Russell Hawkins and Kalani Kossa-Rienzi, who was forced off in their previous match. Albert Rusnák, who has been a standout performer for the Sounders in the MLS season, will be key to their attack, aiming to inspire an upset from his midfield position.
PSG, managed by Luis Enrique, will likely field a strong lineup as they aim to secure their passage to the next round. They may be without Ousmané Dembélé, but other world-class players such as Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are expected to feature. Players like Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue could be key in punishing Seattle on the counter-attack.
Odds and How to Watch
Given their contrasting form and squad strength, PSG are considered heavy favorites for this match. The match will be televised for free on DAZN.com, allowing fans to witness this intriguing encounter.
Predicted Lineups
Prediction
While the Seattle Sounders have shown resilience in their previous matches, the gulf in quality between the two teams is significant. PSG's need to secure a win and their potent attack should prove too much for the Sounders to handle. Expect PSG to bounce back from their defeat to Botafogo and secure a comfortable victory, ending Seattle's Club World Cup hopes. A potential scoreline prediction is Seattle Sounders 1-4 PSG.
