Portland Timbers are set to clash with FC Cincinnati, and coach Phil Neville is optimistic about new signings Kristoffer Velde and Felipe Carballo. These additions are expected to boost the Timbers’ attack as they aim for a playoff spot. The match also marks Evander’s return to Portland. A draw is predicted based on the teams’ form and historical data.
Portland Timbers are set to face off against FC Cincinnati in a highly anticipated match, with head coach Phil Neville expressing his excitement about the recent acquisitions of Kristoffer Velde and Felipe Carballo. Neville believes these signings send a clear message of intent to the rest of Major League Soccer (MLS) as the Timbers aim to solidify their playoff position.
Velde and Carballo, arriving from Olympiacos and Gremio respectively, bring a wealth of attacking talent to Portland. Their arrival is expected to bolster the team's offensive capabilities significantly for the remainder of the season. Both players are in contention to make their debuts this weekend against FC Cincinnati, a formidable opponent currently sitting high in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Timbers currently occupy the sixth spot in the Western Conference, holding a six-point advantage over Real Salt Lake, who are in 10th place. However, a recent 2-0 defeat to FC Dallas has highlighted the need for reinforcements and a renewed sense of urgency. Neville is optimistic that Velde and Carballo will inject fresh energy and quality into the team, providing the spark needed to secure their place in the postseason.
"They are fit, they are hungry, they have experience and quality, everything that we scouted. I think I said two or three weeks ago that the ownership had the full backing to back us right until the very end," Neville stated, emphasizing the club's commitment to success. "I think what you have seen this week is two real quality players coming into the building, and I would say we are not finished there. We’re in a position with the players we have so far that they have been absolutely incredible."
Neville also expressed confidence in the team's current mentality and determination. "We’re in a position to go for it. I think we’re in a strong position with our mentality and confidence. We’re going to go for it, and that is both on and off the field. As a Portland supporter, these are going to be really exciting times."
Meanwhile, FC Cincinnati enters the match at Providence Park on the heels of a 1-0 defeat to Charlotte FC. This loss has caused them to lose ground on league leaders Philadelphia Union. Despite the setback, Pat Noonan's side remains in a strong second position in the Eastern Conference. The game also marks the return of Evander to Portland, adding an emotional layer to the encounter.
Evander, who enjoyed a successful spell with the Timbers after joining from Midtjylland, scored 24 goals and provided 19 assists in 56 appearances for the club. His return to Providence Park is sure to be met with mixed emotions from the Portland faithful. "(I’m) just trying to be focused on my team," Evander said, acknowledging the significance of the match. "I know that I played there for two years, and I know that a lot of things happened throughout these two years, but I gotta represent well for Cincinnati."
Evander stressed the importance of maintaining focus and consistency during the final stretch of the season, noting that Cincinnati needs to continue improving to achieve their goals. "We want to go out there and win the game, especially because our last game wasn't good enough," he added.
Players to Watch
Portland Timbers – David da Costa
David da Costa has been a key attacking figure for Portland this season. In their recent match against FC Dallas, he was involved in five of the team's eight shots, creating three chances and taking two shots himself. Da Costa leads the Timbers in total shots involvement this season, contributing to 88 shots (39 shots, 49 chances created).
FC Cincinnati – Evander
All eyes will be on Evander as he makes his return to Providence Park. During his time with the Timbers, the Brazilian forward registered 30 goal contributions (13 goals, 17 assists) in 29 regular-season games at Providence Park.
Match Prediction: Draw
Historically, Cincinnati has had the upper hand in regular-season meetings with Portland, winning both encounters in 2019 and 2023. However, Portland secured a victory in the knockout rounds of MLS is Back in 2020, advancing on penalties. Cincinnati's recent struggles in front of goal, failing to score in back-to-back regular-season matches, could be a concern for Noonan's side. The last time they went three straight matches without a goal was between July and August 2021.
On the other hand, Portland has been strong at home, losing only one of their last 14 home matches in all competitions (W8 D5). They have also kept clean sheets in their last two home victories, marking their first consecutive home shutouts since November 2021. Given these factors, a draw seems the most likely outcome.
Opta Win Probability
Portland Timbers – 38.8%
Draw – 26.5%
FC Cincinnati – 34.7%
The match between Portland Timbers and FC Cincinnati promises to be a thrilling encounter with both teams having a point to prove. For Portland, the new signings provide a much-needed boost as they aim to cement their playoff spot. For Cincinnati, the return of Evander to Providence Park adds an intriguing storyline. A draw appears to be the most probable outcome, reflecting the competitive nature of both teams and their recent form.