MLS is Back: Top 5 Performances from Matchday One
By Matt Coles
2. Sebastian Blanco
In one of the toughest groups on paper, the Portland Timbers defeated the LA Galaxy to take top spot in Group F. Thet were helped by a crucial performance from Argentine midfielder Sebastian Blanco, who recorded a goal and an assist in the 2-1 victory. The midfielder is increasingly becoming one of the Timbers’ key men, alongside 2017 MVP Diego Valeri, as the franchise aims to make their way into a third MLS Cup final in six seasons.
In their first game of the MLS is Back tournament, Blanco carried the Timbers on his back for a two-goal salvo in eight second-half minutes. He started by putting the ball on a plate for striker Jeremy Ebobisse, who slotted home to give them the lead, before Blanco did this…
Sebastián Blanco is on fire right now. #LAvPOR | #RCTID pic.twitter.com/RQqAB7PVf5
— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) July 14, 2020
The Argentine got to the ball ahead of Galaxy left-back Emiliano Insua, before then battling through the challenge of Giancarlo Gonzalez. He then had the calmness to slot a finish past the goalkeeper to double the Timbers lead with 25 minutes to go. Blanco’s performance was key, earning Man of the Match honours.