Portland Timbers-Real Salt Lake Statistical Preview

Probable Lineups

Team News

Portland Timbers

• Diego Valeri is expected to start for the Portland Timbers, although the attacking midfielder continues to struggle with an adductor strain. Caleb Porter will be reliant on his creativity to break down RSL.
• Max Urruti could return to the Timbers team having struggled with injury for the past few weeks.

Real Salt Lake

• Real Salt Lake will be without Josh Saunders and Kwame Watson-Siriboe for the trip to the Pacififc Northwest to face the Portland Timbers.

Match Facts

• Portland are undefeated in their last 16 home matches in Major League Soccer.
• There have been over 2.5 goals scored in Portland’s last 4 games in Major League Soccer.
• There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Salt Lake’s last 4 away games in Major League Soccer. Under 2.5 goals 1.90
• Portland have scored at least 2 goals in their last 4 matches in Major League Soccer.

Prediction

• Frederic Piquionne’s late goal at Rio Tinto Stadium last week keeps this tie alive for the Portland Timbers, but Caleb Porter’s side will need to turn in their performance of the season if they are to win the Western Conference.
• Real Salt Lake made a real statement of intent last week, with the 4-2 win over the Portland Timbers. Jason Kreis has moulded a team of dynamic passers into a winning side and they are considered by many to be favourites for the MLS Cup.
• It will take an incredible performance by the Timbers to turn this round. It’s difficult to imagine Real Salt Lake drawing a blank, even away from home.

Portland Timbers 2 - 1 Real Salt Lake