MLS - Football - United States - MLS

New York City FC
After two defeats in Group A against Philadelphia Union and Orlando City, New York City FC was able to get a 0-1 win against Inter Miami and proceed as one of the best thirds to the knockout stage, in which they surprise everyone when they defeated Toronto FC by 1-3 to reach the quarterfinals.

It is yet to see how the team performs in this match. The win against Toronto speaks volume on what the team can acomplish yet the irregularity they have shown in the tournament is something to have into consideration. Goalkepper Sean Johnson has made 22 saves, one cleansheet and holds a 1. 2 goals against average, which is pointing towards solid defending in this league.

Portland Timbers
Unbeaten in MLS is Back, with 1-2 wins against LA Galaxy, Houston Dynamo and a high scoring 2-2 draw against Los Angeles FC, to finishin the top of group F. With a great performance in group stage, scoring two goals per match, they should not have had to relay on penalties to overcome FC Cincinnati to proceed to quarterfinals. Portland Timbers had the advantage, but with nine minutes to the final whistle Jurgen Locadia scored the tying goal, and in penalties Timbers did not miss one, meanwhile FC Cincinnati only scored the first two.

To the usual offensive options of Diego Valeri, Sebastian Blanco and Jeremy Ebobisse, there is a new option for the Timbers, as the newcomer Poland Jaroslaw Niezgoda has already scored two goals in four matches. Therefore the offensive power is there for the Timbers, just need to keep compose on defense and allowe less goal than those they score, and that should have them in the final.

Match
In their yearly matchup, Portland Timbers have won four times for one of New York City FC. Considering games only at Yankee Stadium, Portland Timbers currently has a streak of three consecutive victories by 1-0. This match is set to be played at ESPN World Wide of Sports Complex Field.

Prediction
A close tight match this one is expected, a place in the semifinals is at stake and the focus on defending will be the key here. Despite struggling against FC Cincinnati, Portland Timbers form, consistency in scoring and solid gameplay is better than that of New York City, who is carried by the momentum of having proceed to the knockout stage in the last match. Here the best team, Portland Timbers should get the win, yet let's cover with the handicap as the good momentum of New York City FC could produce a draw.

02/08/2020 02:56, read 969 times