Did Brian Schmetzer Get it Wrong in Mexico?

Lobbing Scorchers’, Ari Liljenwall and Noah Riffe regroup after a tough Leg 1 of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal. The Seattle Sounders sit in a 2-0 aggregate hole against Tigres UANL after failing to score at El Volcán. Can the Rave Green flip the script at Lumen Field, or is this year’s CCC campaign headed for an unceremonious end?

Lobbing Scorchers questions Jesus Ferreira’s omission from the Sounders FC starting XI, and if Brian Schmetzer got the subs wrong in Mexico, and if Seattle fans should be concerned about the attack as a whole.

This week's Agenda Check: Should Seattle Sounders fans want MLS Cup or Concacaf Champions Cup? Has Jesus Ferreira proven he should be the starting No. 10? Is it time for the Seattle Sounders to sign a left back in the summer window?

Ari and Noah round out the show with the top headlines around Major League Soccer. James Rodríguez suffers severe dehydration amid a weird tenure with Minnesota United. Portland Timbers head coach Phil Neville questions a reporter on the security of his job. 34-year-old Neymar linked with FC Cincinnati after a brutal start to the 2026 season.

Follow Lobbing Scorchers:

• YouTube
• Instagram
• Bluesky
• TikTok
• Facebook
• Ari Liljenwall
• Noah Riffe
• Niko Moreno

SPONSORS

QED Coffee - a Seattle based roaster, coffee shop and coffee subscription service is the title sponsor for Lobbing Scorchers Kickoff. Visit them in person at one of the three Seattle locations or online and use code ‘LS74’ for 25% off across the site.

Haxan Ferments - Specializing in unique, small-batch fermented hot sauces and vinegars, Haxan Ferments is handcrafted in Georgetown and made with the best local ingredients from across the Pacific Northwest. Use Code LS for a FREE Hot Sauce w/ purchase!

Sounder at Heart - Our network host and biggest supporter, Sounder at Heart covers the Seattle Sounders, Seattle Reign, and MUCH MORE! Subscribe and Support to the BEST independent Seattle Soccer coverage.

Podium Edmonds - Located at 114 4th Ave N, just off Main Street in the heart of Downtown Edmonds, come shop and explore the best menswear in the Pacific Northwest. Tell them Lobbing Scorchers sent you!

Full Pull Wines - Founded in 2009, they the best boutique wines of the world to members, with special focus on our home, the Pacific Northwest.

MLS Store - New year, new gear! The 2026 MLS jerseys are here, and MLSStore is the ultimate destination for every fan. Every purchase helps support our show!

Lobbing Scorchers is a production of Just Once Media.

Lobbing Scorchers is a Seattle Sounders and MLS focused show brought to you by Sounder at Heart. Hosted by Major League Soccer's Ari Liljenwall and Producer Noah Riffe. Join us as we lob our scorching takes on the American soccer landscape, Seattle Sounders, Major League Soccer, USMNT and more.

Contact: lobbingscorchers@justoncemedia.com