MLS Cup 2019
The night the Emerald City claimed their second MLS crown against Toronto.
The 2019 MLS Cup stands as the crowning achievement of the Seattle Sounders' modern era, marking their second league championship in club history. Played at Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles on November 10, 2019, this match saw the Sounders defeat Toronto FC 3-1 in regulation time to secure the trophy. It was a defining moment that cemented the team's status as a dynasty of the Western Conference and validated the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase.
- Event
- MLS Cup Finals
- Year
- 2019
- Location
- Banc of California Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
- Opponent
- Toronto FC
- Result
- Seattle Sounders FC won 3-1
- Key Moment
- Goals by Kelvin Leerdam, Nicolás Lodeiro, and Raúl Ruidíaz
Lore & Background
This triumph was not just about the players on the pitch but the collective roar of 'The 12th Man' traveling to California. The atmosphere in Los Angeles was electric, filled with green and gold flags that created a sea of support reminiscent of their home at Lumen Field (then CenturyLink Field). The victory solidified the Sounders as one of the most accomplished franchises in MLS history, joining a select group of clubs to win multiple championships. It remains a cherished memory for supporters who witnessed the culmination of years of consistent excellence.
In Their Own Story
The Los Angeles sun had long set, replaced by the harsh glare of stadium floodlights reflecting off the wet grass. In the stands, thousands of Seattle fans, huddled in green scarves against the cool night air, held their breath as the ball rolled toward Jordan Morris. The crowd's silence was deafening for a split second before erupting into a primal roar as he slotted the ball past the keeper. It wasn't just a goal; it was the release of years of pressure, a moment where the entire city seemed to exhale in unison, knowing history had been written once again.
Reader's Guide
The Sounders' fan culture is defined by an intense, organized atmosphere that travels with them wherever they go. The '12th Man' tradition involves coordinated chants, massive Tifo displays, and the iconic 'Green Army' flags that create a visual wall of support. During the 2019 run, the away section in Los Angeles was legendary for its noise levels, often drowning out the home crowd. Fans bring drums, horns, and flares (where permitted) to maintain high energy throughout matches, creating an intimidating environment for opponents that directly influences player morale and performance. The evolution of this culture has seen fans become more sophisticated in their displays, utilizing complex choreography and historical references. This unwavering support is often credited by players as a key factor in the team's ability to perform under pressure in critical knockout matches.
Did You Know?
- This was the Sounders' second MLS Cup title, following their inaugural victory in 2016.
- The match ended 3-1 in regulation time, with no extra time needed.
- Raúl Ruidíaz scored a crucial goal in the second half, a signature moment of the final.
- Seattle became one of several MLS teams to win multiple league championships by that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2019 MLS Cup and who was the opponent?
The Seattle Sounders defeated Toronto FC to claim their second league championship. The match took place at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on December 7, 2019.
What was the final score of the 2019 MLS Cup?
Seattle secured a 3-1 victory over Toronto FC after the game went into extra time. This result marked the club's second title in its history.
Which players scored the decisive goals for Seattle in extra time?
Jordan Morris and C.J. dos Santos both found the net during the overtime period to seal the win. Their contributions were critical in overcoming Toronto FC's resistance.
Where was the 2019 MLS Cup played?
The final match was hosted at BMO Stadium, which is located in Los Angeles, California. This neutral site served as the stage for Seattle's championship celebration.
Why is the 2019 MLS Cup considered a defining moment for the Sounders?
This victory cemented Seattle's status as a Western Conference dynasty and validated the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase. It stands as the crowning achievement of the team's modern era.