Wednesday’s contest was a unique opportunity to play a competitive match against a top Mexican club, and the Seattle Sounders took full advantage despite a less-than-ideal Starting XI.
Handwalla Bwana, 18, made his first career start with the First Team, while Henry Wingo came onto the field as a reserve and notched an assist. In the end, it was enough for the Sounders to record a 1-0 victory in the first leg of the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal.
“The development of young American players is certainly important,” Head Coach Brian Schmetzer told media following the match. “It’s important to every club in our league. If the guys are going to be good enough at Handwalla’s age, at Henry’s age, if they’re good enough, they’ll play.”
For just the fourth time in club history, the Rave Green hosted a quarterfinal match in CONCACAF Champions League. Furthermore, it was the first opportunity to play Chivas de Guadalajara, one of the most respected clubs of Mexico.
All things considered, it was easy to be discomforted at the Sounders’ lineup at first glance. Designated Player Osvaldo Alonso was sidelined with a quad strain, while TAM players Magnus Wolff Eikrem, Kelvin Leerdam and Víctor Rodríguez were out with their own injuries. Add the ACL tear to Jordan Morris, and the Rave Green were, unfortunately, entering a crucial match on crutches.
Yet, the holes were filled.
Jordan McCrary did a fine job at right back. Wingo’s connection to Clint Dempsey proved to be the difference maker. And Bwana was confident and electric in his 70 minutes.
“He’s growing,” Dempsey said of Bwana. “As the season goes on, he’s getting better and better. He has pace and can take people 1-v-1…The future is bright for him.”
Since taking over managerial duties in July 2016, Schmetzer has emphasized the “next man up” mentality. This rang especially true on Wednesday. Nouhou, who was an unused sub in leg one against Chivas, will be fully rested for next week, while Eikrem could return to action, as well.
While the Sounders won’t be fully healthy for leg two in Guadalajara next Wednesday, they should have a few more options at their disposal. No matter how it shakes out, Schmetzer will expect each player to be prepared and ready to do what’s expected of them to advance the club to their second-ever SCCL semifinal.
“We understand that it’s going to be difficult,” Schmetzer said. “As far as preparation is concerned, one week is better than two days.”
