Published Feb 19, 4:46am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 19, 4:46am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 19, 4:46am ET
Interesting MLS action is set for Lumen Field on the opening weekend, as the Seattle Sounders host the Colorado Rapids. Find the odds and our picks here.
The Sounders enjoyed a productive 2025 campaign, winning the Leagues Cup. However, replicating that level of performance in the MLS is now their big challenge.
Meanwhile, the Rapids will have their sights set on a return to the playoffs in the Western Conference after missing out on a spot in the top nine last term due to recording one fewer win than Real Salt Lake.
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|
|---|---|
| Seattle Sounders | -211 |
| The Draw | +365 |
| Colorado | +498 |
Last season’s Leagues Cup success showcases what the Sounders are capable of when they are at their best.
Little has changed with the team during the off-season, with U.S. national team hopeful Cristian Roldan likely to be a key player in his push to make the squad for the World Cup. Hassani Dotson has joined the team to add depth in the middle of the field.
Ryan Sailor is another experienced MLS player who has joined the Rave Green. Notable outgoings include Obed Vargas, who signed for Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, and Ryan Kent, who was used sparingly in 2025.
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Chis Armas’ two-year stay at the Rapids ended at the end of last season, with Matt Wells tasked with getting the franchise back into playoff contention.
The Rapids have a strong core of U.S. national team players, with Paxten Aaronson, Zack Steffen, and Sam Vines all hoping to perform to a standard high enough to be included in this summer’s World Cup squad. Last season’s top scorer, Rafael Navarro, will be Colorado’s leading player in the final third.
Talented defensive midfielder Hamzat Ojediran could be an excellent addition, with his ball-winning ability likely to be key to getting the Rapids on the front foot in games. Cole Basset, Calvin Harris, and Oliver Larraz have all departed.
| TOTAL | Seattle | Colorado | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 45 | 29 | 9 | 7 |
| Goals | 128 | 83 | 45 |
The Sounders were our preseason pick to win the MLS Cup in 2026. We expect them to make a professional start to the new season at Lumen Field, and their chances of an opening night win are enhanced after avoiding defeat in their last seven against the Rapids.
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Pick
Seattle Sounders
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