Seattle Sounders Triumph in Leagues Cup Amid Post-Match Tensions

Seattle Sounders FC secured their first Leagues Cup title on August 31, 2025, with a commanding 3-0 victory over Inter Miami CF at Lumen Field. The win marked a historic achievement, making Seattle the first team to claim all five major North American soccer trophies: MLS Cup, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and Leagues Cup.

The match drew a record-breaking crowd of 69,314 spectators, surpassing the previous Leagues Cup attendance record of 50,675 set in July 2024. This also set a new single-game attendance record for the Sounders, eclipsing the 69,274 fans who attended the 2019 MLS Cup final at the same venue.

The Sounders' offensive prowess was evident throughout the match. In the 26th minute, Osaze De Rosario opened the scoring by heading in a cross from Alex Roldán, marking his fourth goal of the tournament. Roldán extended the lead in the 84th minute with a calmly executed penalty kick. Paul Rothrock sealed the victory in the 89th minute, converting another assist from Roldán. Roldán's performance, contributing a goal and two assists, earned him Man of the Match honors.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the post-match events were marred by a melee initiated by Inter Miami's Luis Suárez. Following the final whistle, Suárez placed Seattle's Obed Vargas in a headlock, triggering a brawl involving multiple players and staff. During the altercation, Suárez was observed spitting at a Sounders staff member. Teammate Sergio Busquets reportedly punched Vargas during the incident. Inter Miami's Marcelo Weigandt and Tomás Avilés also became involved, confronting Seattle defender Jackson Ragen.

In response to the incident, Inter Miami issued a statement condemning the violence and reaffirming their commitment to respect, professionalism, and responsibility both on and off the field. Suárez publicly apologized for his actions, expressing regret and acknowledging his behavior as a moment of frustration. He emphasized his commitment to assisting Inter Miami for the remainder of the season.

The Leagues Cup Disciplinary Committee reviewed the incident and announced suspensions for those involved. Suárez received a six-match suspension, Busquets was suspended for two matches, Avilés for three matches, and Sounders assistant coach Steven Lenhart for five matches.

This incident has sparked broader discussions about sportsmanship and player conduct in professional soccer. Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, has faced increasing scrutiny for misconduct throughout the 2025 season, with several altercations involving players and staff. Despite a roster featuring global stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets, the team has struggled with on-field discipline, raising questions about leadership and accountability within the organization.

On the other hand, Seattle's victory solidifies their status as a dominant force in North American soccer. The Sounders have now won nine major trophies since joining MLS in 2009, including four U.S. Open Cups, two MLS Cups, one Concacaf Champions Cup, one Supporters’ Shield, and the recent Leagues Cup. Their consistent success underscores a culture of excellence and professionalism within the club.

As the Sounders celebrate this historic achievement, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining sportsmanship and integrity in the sport. The disciplinary actions taken aim to uphold these values and ensure that such behavior is addressed appropriately.