In the 120 meetings between the Portland Timbers and the Seattle Sounders, we have seen goal fests in the playoffs, historic comebacks, and literal riots, making this matchup arguably the fiercest rivalry in North American soccer.
More fireworks are destined to come in match 121.
Just three points separate the two clubs in the Western Conference standings heading into the latest installment of this storied derby at Providence Park this Saturday. A win could see the Timbers climb up the table significantly, while a loss could drop them to the bottom of the playoff picture with only seven more matches to go.
Both sides are in good form at the moment, so let’s dissect what the Timbers will need to do to gain the upper hand on the pitch and gut the fish in front of their home crowd.
- The Magic Man
It almost goes without saying. DP Attacking midfielder Evander is carrying the Timbers into the playoff hunt and should have his name on the MVP ballot at the end of the year. The Brazilian is averaging over a goal contribution per game, has been involved in nearly every significant offensive play, AND seems to be scoring screamers that make you jump out of your seat on the regular. Just unreal.
He will be the best player on the field and might be the deciding factor in the outcome of this match. If he can find his rhythm and avoid being neutralized by Seattle’s (very good) defense, the Timbers will be scoring a lot of goals and creating plenty of opportunities. On the other hand, the Timbers don’t have many other players who can consistently fill that role, so a dud performance from Evander could end up being disastrous.
- Miguel Araujo
The Peruvian had a disastrous performance in Portland’s 4-4 draw against St. Louis – giving up a penalty and looking lost all night. He was exposed in an overall abysmal showing from the Timbers backline against one of the worst attacking teams in the entire league.
Head Coach Phil Neville clearly has a lot of faith in the 29-year-old defender, so he’s likely to get another start alongside Dario Župarić in central defense this weekend. With the Timbers’ fullbacks frequently pushing forward, the center-backs have had an increased responsibility all year. They will need to work hard to minimize the defensive mishaps that have plagued the team in 2024 and prevent key attackers like Jordan Morris, Albert Rusnák, and the ever-dangerous Raúl Ruidíaz from finding the back of the net.
- All The Subs
The squad has some big gaps in the starting lineup at the moment, with striker Felipe Mora and winger Jonathan Rodríguez likely to miss Saturday’s game. Mora received a straight red card in the final minutes of their last match against St. Louis (more on this next week), while Rodríguez is suspended for yellow card accumulation after being cautioned for simulation in the same game.
Mason Toye and Antony are expected to replace the two absentees, bringing a style of play markedly different from the rest of the team. Both players are known for their pace and acceleration, which contrasts with the Timbers’ usual starters. It will be interesting to see how the Timbers’ tactical approach adapts and whether these pieces can catch the Sounders off guard.
In any Portland-Seattle derby, a few things are guaranteed to happen: scarves will be waved, tifo will be displayed, chanting will echo throughout the stadium, and drumming will reverberate from the Timbers Army. You can catch it all this Saturday on Apple TV with an MLS Season Pass subscription. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
