Portland Timbers vs DC United Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips
Portland Timbers vs DC United Match Preview
Portland Timber gans are not happy with the appointment of Phil Neville as their manager, but the Englishman made a winning start to his time at the club. The Timbers Army Steering Committee were not pleased with the appointment and said:
“The Portland Timbers are currently rebuilding a team on the pitch in addition to their ongoing efforts to rebuild trust with their fans and the community. We are deeply disappointed that the club has reportedly settled on a finalist for head coach who has a history of sexist public statements that run counter to our ethos as a club, city and supporters’ group, and who also lacks a proven track record as a manager. We urge the Timbers to reconsider this hire and reevaluate other candidates before finalizing a contract.”
Portland Timbers managed a stunning 4-1 win over Colorado Rapids last week. Williamson opened the scoring in the 9th minute, and Alves scored a brace to make it 3-0 before the 30-minute mark. An own goal towards the end of the first half made it 4-0 before Harris pulled one back for Colorado Rapids, but that was the last goal of the game.
DC United also registered a big win in their opening match, with Christian Benteke scoring a hattrick. Carlos Gill pulled one back for the New England Revolution early in the second half, but the side from the capital did not let their lead slip.
Team News
Portland Timbers will need to deal with two injury issues with Claudio Bravo and Marvin Koria out injured. The former is out for at least three months, while the latter could be back at the start of April.
The hosts will also have three other issues to deal with ahead of the match against DC United. Felipe Mora, Evander, and David Ayala are currently doubtful with minor problems.
Mora has a toe injury and is very likely to sit out, even with a late fitness test. Evander has calf tightness, while Ayala missed training this week and is also facing a late fitness test.
DC United have a lot more injury issues when compared to their opponents. Tyler Miller, Garrison Tubbs, and Jacob Murrell are definitely out injured this week.
Miller is still recovering from shoulder surgery, while Tubbs and Murrell have thigh issues and will not be fit enough in time. Jared Stroud picked up a knock in the previous game, and that puts him in doubt for the upcoming game.
Steven Birnbaum is one of the doubtful players for the game with a knee injury, while Russell Canouse is also carrying an ankle injury. Mohanad Jeahze is looking for a transfer away, and his move to Hammarby could be close, so he is unlikely to play.
Also read: Chicago Fire vs FC Cincinnati Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips
Predicted Lineups
There are a few changes that could happen in the Portland Timbers starting XI. However, Maxime Crépeau coming in for James Pantemis in goal this week should be the only big one.
Apart from that, it would be a major surprise for all Timber fans if Phil Neville makes any changes. Juan Mosquera, Zac McGraw, Kamal Miller, and Eric Miller are the expected defenders in the starting XI.
Diego Chara, who captains the team, will be partnered by Cristian Paredes in the defensive midfield, with Eryk Williamson in the attacking role. Santiago Moreno and Antony Alves can be the ideal wingers for Neville this week, with Dairon Asprilla leading the attack.
Predicted XI: Maxime Crépeau, Juan Mosquera, Zac McGraw, Kamal Miller, Eric Miller, Cristhian Paredes, Diego Chará, Santiago Moreno, Eryk Williamson, Antony Alves, Dairon Asprilla
DC United won 3-1 last week against New England Revolution, and thus, Zach Prince is unlikely to make a change to his starting XI. It would be a major surprise if the news is unchanged for the clash this week.
Predicted XI: Alex Bono, Aaron Herrera, Lucas Bartlett, Christopher McVey, Pedro Santos, Mateusz Klich, Matti Peltola, Jared Stroud, Theodore Ku-DiPietro, Gabriel Pirani, Christian Benteke
Portland Timbers vs DC United Head-to-Head & Prediction
Portland Timbers and DC United have a knack for keeping a clean sheet in these games, but none of the last seven matches. This time around, the home side should be getting the win easily and should keep a clean sheet too.
Both teams are coming in after a big win in the opening game week. The home side defeated Colorado Rapids 4-1, while the away side managed a 3-1 win at New England Revolution.
DC United completed the league double over Portland Timbers. They won 1-0 at the Providence Park after thrashing them 4-1 at the Audi Field.
Prediction:
Portland Timbers 0-1 DC United
DC United 4-1 Portland Timbers
Portland Timbers 4-0 DC United
DC United 2-0 Portland Timbers
Portland Timbers 1-0 DC United
Prediction: Portland Timbers 2-0 DC United
Betting Tips
Draw.
Both Teams To Score: No.
Over 3.5 Goals: No.
Odds
Chicago Fire Win: 1.96
Draw: 3.93
FC Cincinnati Win: 3.97
Portland Timbers vs DC United Timings & Telecast
Providence Park – 3rd March – 03:30 GMT
India: MLS Season Pass
United Kingdom: MLS Season Pass
US: Fox, Fox Desportes and FS1