Portland forces game three in a thrilling night at Providence Park

Kristoffer Velde recriminates San Diego substitute keeper Pablo Sisniega’s premature celebrations after scoring in the penalties definition (photo by Diego G Diaz).

The Portland Timbers and San Diego FC had another go at Providence Park. This time, for game two of the first round of the 2025 MLS playoffs. San Diego had the advantage in the series after a hard fought win at Snapdragon Stadium last week. Prior to the playoffs, San Diego and Portland closed the season at the Timbers’ sacred gourd of Providence Park, in a resounding 4-0 rout for the visitors.

This time, the story was completely different. No fancy midfield high passing, no humiliating rondos in their own half mocking Portland’s out of timing pressing, and definitely no unchallenged solitary runs by Amahi Pellegrino to the box. Portland’s coach Phil Neville did the homework and went to battle. New Zealand international defender Finn Surman was again leading the defense, and the team got the pressing right.

The result was a thrilling high intensity match played in the entire field, Portland opened the score in minute 18 with a goal of Kristoffer Velde, Pellegrino equalized in the first half stoppage time, then San Diego got ahead with goal by Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. The very special moment of the night, was when 22-year old striker Gage Guerra equalized the match and forced the penalty definition, which Portland won.

Game Three will be Sunday at Snapdragon Stadium with kickoff time to be announced.

Here are the match in images.