Another tough test on the road now against Minnesota United

Photo Credit: Portland Timbers F.C.

(6) Portland Timbers (10,9,8, 38 points) vs (2) Minnesota United (14,6,8, 50 points)

Saturday, August 30, 2025 KO 5:30 PM PST/ 8:30 PM EST

Allianz Field, Saint Paul, Minnesota

Portland Timbers Briefly

The team earned a share of the spoils in San Diego, and while a point is still a point, this game raised several questions about how the team is performing in the final stretch of the season. Recently, the team’s performance has not been up to par, and the hope is that manager Phil Neville can find a solution.

The arrival of new reinforcements has been a highlight, and it is crucial for these players to adapt to Neville’s game plan for a successful postseason run. The team needs to prioritize discipline and, most importantly, scoring when it matters, as they currently lack a consistent scorer.

Hopefully, the new players will bring a fresh dynamic to the attack. Despite being in a slump, I trust Neville, who is proving to be a dynamic manager and is maturing in his role by delivering positive results and turning this club around.

It’s important to focus on the present and look ahead, as the club needs to make a strong push for the playoffs. This will be evident in the remaining games, where they must improve their offense and strengthen their defense.

With the addition of these new players, the team has the potential to make a positive run and secure a postseason berth, which would be a significant turnaround for manager Phil Neville.

Photo Credit: Minnesota United F.C.

Minnesota United Briefly

Manager Eric Ramsay aims to continue the team’s dominance over the Portland Timbers, a challenge that has persisted since the Timbers’ inception in Major League Soccer. The team is focused on making it to MLS Cup, hoping to earn their first-ever Supporters’ shield and bring several trophies to Allianz Field.

Currently, Ramsay is employing a 5-4-1 formation with a lone forward, Kelvin Yeboah, supported by Joseph Rosales, Joaqin Pereyra, Will Trapp, and Robin Lod. This combination poses a considerable challenge for opposing defenses.

The Timbers’ defensive backfield will certainly have their hands full dealing with this formidable group, leading to an eventful afternoon for their starting goalkeeper and defensive lineup.

On the other hand, the Loons’ defense, featuring Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Michael Boxall, Nicolas Romero, Anthony Markanich, and Jefferson Diaz, is eager to deliver a strong performance, potentially overwhelming the Timbers.