Riding one of the best starts in MLS history, the Seattle Sounders are favorites against the Vancouver Whitecaps. There are several reasons for this beyond just “the Sounders are good.” Vancouver isn’t doing well, not just because of coaching and player acquisition — their ‘home’ pitch is Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah and Designated Player Ali Adnan has been unable to enter the U.S. due to visa issues.
These external challenges have manifested in poor on-field performances. According to 538 they have the worst attack and worst defense in MLS. American Soccer Analysis doesn’t see them as much better, with the Whitecaps being the 4th worst offense and 10th worst defense.