Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers: Preview and How to Watch

One of the MLS’ top rivalries opens up the Saturday slate of matches, as the Seattle Sounders host the Portland Timbers in a Cascadia clash.

This weekend’s battle between the Seattle Sounders and the Portland Timbers has everything the league and a neutral fan could want. First and foremost, is the rivalry. Regardless of the time of year, the location of the match, or what is at stake, these two love to not only beat each other, but make a statement.

The past two MLS champions and a pitch full of talented, exciting players, lands this game on the main FOX network Saturday afternoon. While Seattle needs the three points to close the gap on the Timbers in the table, that won’t be the primary focus. As evident this week, both clubs enjoy going at one another and building up the energy ahead of the match.

Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer shot out a light-hearted joke at the Timbers’ mascot.

Timber Joey responded quickly with,

To clarify. Yes Timber Joey is really qualified to hold that title. And Mr. Schmetzer is the reigning MLS Champion head coach. Both facts that both individuals already knew, but enjoy revving up the fan bases. It should prove to be an enjoyable match as always.

Next: MLS Multiplex Podcast: Episode 4 – Previewing MLS Week 13

Seattle Sounders

• Current Record: 3W-5L-4D
• Last Time Out: 1-0 Victory over Real Salt Lake
• Player To Watch For: Clint Dempsey. The star man often plays his best soccer when the game gets chippy and his attitude can influence his game. This match should take about five minutes to reach that point, so expect to see a lively Clint in front his home crowd.
• Why They Win: At home the Sounders have only lost once this year, and that was against a Toronto side that is arguably the best in MLS so far in 2017. The Timbers are without Chara and have lost their last two games on the road. In front of what should be a packed crowd, the Sounders shine with Dempsey digging into the match early and Morris finally breaking out of his tough sophomore season.
• Why They Won’t: For all that home success, they’ve only managed to score more than one goal twice. The offense has struggled over the last four matches, and the pressure will be even higher playing at home against Portland. The Timbers will look to the counter attack and between Nagbe and Valeri, strike fast.
• Predicted Starting XI:

Portland Timbers

• Current Record: 5W-4L-3D
• Last Time Out: 4-1 loss to the Montreal Impact
• Player To Watch For: Diego Chara’s replacement. After an incredibly stupid red card last week, the Timbers have to take on their rivals without their midfield enforcer. Ben Zemanksi looks to be the likely replacement, with the team relying on Guzman to do the heavy defensive lifting.
• Why They Win: If Portland can shore up their defense, Seattle has failed to get their offense together the last few weeks. A moment of brilliance from Valeri, Nagbe, or Adi could allow the Timbers to sit back and then play for the counter. If Torres remains out, Adi will look to capitalize on chances against Tony Alfaro.
• Why They Won’t: The Timbers have given up nine goals in their last three road games. Without Chara that stat doesn’t look to be getting any better against a Seattle team that can break out for two or three goals. Portland will need to open the game up, knowing goals will be required with their defense’s current form. However, that only plays into the Sounders hands further who will want to test the backline and Chara’s replacement.
• Predicted Starting XI:

Score Prediction:

How to Watch

Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington
When: 12:00 pm PT
How to Watch: FOX, TSN2, MLS LIVE, FOX Deportes