FC Dallas was always second-favorite to make the Western Conference final after losing the first leg of its semifinal series by three goals. Seattle Sounders traveled to face this year's US Open Cup and Supporters' Shield winner knowing they would advance to the next round of the 2016 MLS playoffs if they simply avoided humiliation.
The two teams traded chances in the first half, and FCD went in to the break with a 1-0 lead - just two goals short of at least forcing extra time. But the Sounders struck first in the second half, and the away goal took extra time off the table.