The Seattle Sounders’ signing of Uruguayan midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro in July was one of the catalysts of the team’s remarkable turnaround. Their 4th place finish and playoff qualification seemed quite impossible, but the arrival of Lodeiro changed everything. His rise has been important and impressive, but his season isn’t over. The slate is clean, and the playoffs are an entirely different game. Despite his excellent performances and the praise from all corners that has followed, Lodeiro has chosen to stay humble and continues to express a desire to learn and grow as a professional.
The playoff format in MLS is unique compared to the other domestic leagues Lodeiro has played in, though he’s played in plenty of big games in tournament settings - like in the Copa Libertadores and two World Cups - so he knows a few things about the pressure that comes with a big game.