Nicolas Lodeiro’s superb start to his MLS career has been well-documented. The Sounders’ new Designated Player has a goal and three assists in his first three matches since joining the club from Boca Juniors and has bossed the midfield in each of his outings.
Sunday’s match will not only be Lodeiro’s first match against bitter rival Portland Timbers, but one of his first real tests against a truly gifted offensive counterpart. Timbers midfielder Darlington Nagbe is one of MLS and U.S. Soccer’s brightest young talents and Sunday’s result will likely be determined by whomever is able to step up more.