Timbers FC 1-0 win over Austin FC in our Photo Gallery

MARCH 1, 2025 – PORTLAND, OR: Timbers midfielder David Da Costa’s cross finds the net late in minute 89 in the second half of the MLS Regular Season Austin FC at Portland Timbers ( Photo by Diego G Diaz)

The Portland Timbers were able to give the fans their first win of the season with a late goal by their new DP David Da Costa. The Portuguese midfielder called to fill in the star role left by Evander Ferreira was the difference between both teams in his first start of the season, He delighted the fans with his skillful dribblings, but also with a very calculated midfield work that resulted in an 80% pass completion.

The match seemed marked by two teams who came to the match more interested in not losing, rather than taking on the risk of aggressively pushing for the win. In each half, they showed a similar wealth of resources and looked difficult to overcome each other’s system absent a dramatic error, or something truly special by one of the players on the pitch. That last moment, was the difference made by Da Costa.

The 24-year old star signing by the Timbers, was a thorn in a very ordered Austin FC side, attacking from the center and down on both wings. The fact that he has being with the team for a short month might have been the why the goal had to wait till minute 89.

Da Costa’s first slab with the Timbers, came out of a free kick from the attacking left wing near the corner spot, while it looked aimed to the second post as a cross, it failed to find any heads, or keepers hands. The ball was carrying heavy spin, it curved and fell just perfectly to ground near the opposite post and went to side netting after bouncing just before the goal line.

Providence Park exploded in cheers, and saw the birth of a new idol. For the team, the clean sheet and the image of game control might have been the step of confidence that Phil Neville was looking to counter two consecutive routs against Vancouver, a 5-0 and the end of 2024 season, and the 2025 opener’s 4-1. Now with this gasp of fresh air and three points, there is a chance to start building this new proposition right.