Match Prediction: US Open Cup Final

Up until recent weeks I would have said that the Sounders would have little trouble in winning their third consecutive Open Cup, but the Fire's current form and the boost from their recent victory over RSL at Rio Tinto could complicate matters for the Sounders.

The Fire is definitely not the same team that the Sounders encountered both back in April and early June, that saw the Sounders win 2-1 and both teams settling for a nil-nil draw. The mid-season acquisitions of Pavel Pardo and Sebastien Grazzini have breathed new life into Fire, having only experienced one loss since mid-August. Not only have new signings helped, but improved performance from pre-existing players (primarily Dominic Oduro) has played a major part in their recent success. Where previously Oduro had been squandering excellent chances and opportunities, now he seems to be consistently put them away.

While Chicago has added two vital pieces to their team, the Sounders have lost two of their key pieces. First came the loss of Steve Zakuani to a broken leg and then O'Brian White to blood clot issues, both of whom accounted for both goals in the Sounders first encounter with Fire. Fortunately, with the loss of those two came the advent of Mauro Rosales and Alvaro Fernandez, who combined account for thirteen of the Sounders fifty one goals and twelve assists. One problem, however, is the recent injury of Rosales. He looks to be set for a return in the Open Cup, but nothing is guaranteed. Whether or not Roslaes returns or not, the Sounders have proven time and again that they can continue to grind out victories despite the loss of key players. Also questionable for the Final is James Riley, who has missed the last few matches due to a concussion. From the way things sound, he should be ready to go for this match. Past the injuries, the real focus for the Sounders is the red-hot form of Fredy Montero. In his last five matches he has recorded either a goal or an assist, even going so far as to netting a brace in two consecutive league matches. Another important factor is the resting of key players such as Jeff Parke and Ozzie Alonso during last weekend's match against New England. Having key players like that completely rested and ready to go further increases the Sounders chances.

Considering the resting of multiple key players, Montero's current form, and the possible return of Rosales, despite Chicago's recent form the Sounders should have little trouble winning their third consecutive Open Cup.