The Seattle Sounders have locked up an MLS playoff spot, and know they will be playing Real Salt Lake in the first round, but that doesn't mean their final game against the L.A. Galaxy is without significance, according to the Seattle Times. The Sounders can still wrap up a top-three spot in the overall MLS Standings with a win. That would afford them a better chance to host the MLS Cup and qualify for the CCL.

The Sounders haven't needed an MLS result to qualify them for the CCL in year's past, as they've received a bid to the league by virtue of their U.S. Open Cup titles the last three years. Following a loss to Sporting Kansas City in the final, they still have work to do to make the CCL for 2013.

Seattle also plays a group-stage CCL game this week against CD Marathon. The Sounders have to lose in group play, and a win would secure them the top seed from the group and make an easier path in the knockout rounds.