Portland Timbers Strengthen International Ties with Mora and Paredes Call-ups

PORTLAND, OREGON - SEPTEMBER 20: Cristhian Paredes #22 of Portland Timbers celebrates his goal against the San Jose Earthquakes during the first half at Providence Park on September 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON - SEPTEMBER 20: Cristhian Paredes #22 of Portland Timbers celebrates his goal against the San Jose Earthquakes during the first half at Providence Park on September 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images) /
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The Portland Timbers, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, are sending two of their talented players to represent their home countries in international competitions this October. Felipe Mora and Cristhian Paredes have been called up to join the Chilean and Paraguayan national teams, respectively, in the Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These call-ups not only enrich the club’s international profile but also highlight the quality of soccer being played in the United States.

Felipe Mora, the 30-year-old forward, will bring his experience and skills to the Chilean National Team, facing Peru and Venezuela. With nine appearances for the Chilean senior squad and one goal under his belt, Mora has already showcased his worth on the international stage. His last call-up in 2019 saw him go up against Peru, and now he is ready to defend his country’s colors once again. Additionally, Mora is one of the standouts for the Portland Timbers this season, with 12 matches played, four goals, and one assist.

Cristhian Paredes, the 25-year-old midfielder, will have the honor of donning the Paraguayan jersey and taking on formidable teams like Argentina and Bolivia. With six caps for the Paraguayan senior team, Paredes is bringing his youth and energy to the national side. His debut against France in 2017 was just the beginning of a promising international career. On the domestic front, Paredes also shines, with two goals and three assists in 26 appearances for the Portland Timbers this season.

PORTLAND, OREGON – MAY 20: Cristhian Paredes #22 of the Portland Timbers controls the ball during the second half against the Minnesota United at Providence Park on May 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON – MAY 20: Cristhian Paredes #22 of the Portland Timbers controls the ball during the second half against the Minnesota United at Providence Park on May 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images) /

These call-ups are a testament to the growing quality of soccer in the United States and the significance of the Portland Timbers on the global sports scene. The club has been a platform for the development of international talents, and Mora and Paredes’ call-ups are proof of that.

Furthermore, this is an opportunity for the players to continue honing their skills in a highly competitive environment, which, in turn, can benefit the Portland Timbers when they return to MLS action.

Therefore, Portland Timbers fans have reasons to be proud and root for Mora and Paredes as they represent their countries. These call-ups not only honor the players but also strengthen the club’s international bonds and solidify its position as one of the top teams in MLS.