Portland Timbers vs San Diego FC: 2025 MLS Playoffs Preview
Portland Timbers will host San Diego FC at Providence Park on Saturday in game two of the 2025 Major League Soccer playoffs. The Timbers will be optimistic to get one back over their opponents after a disappointing result last time out.
In game one of the series on Monday, Portland found themselves two goals down by the 30th minute and managed to pull one goal back, but ultimately suffered a 2-1 away loss. The Timbers have not made it past the first round since finishing as runners-up in 2021 and will be desperate for a win this weekend to keep their chances of progressing further in the playoffs alive.
San Diego FC finished the regular season leading the Western Conference and ended just three points behind Supporters’ Shield winner Philadelphia Union in the combined table. They have been considered one of the favorites to lift the MLS Cup this season. The visitors have won three games in a row heading into the weekend and will be confident to continue their solid form as they make the trip to Portland.
Portland Timbers vs San Diego FC Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
The sides have met on four previous occasions. Portland has won one of those matches, one ended in a draw, while San Diego FC have won the remaining two. The Timbers have scored four goals across the last four meetings, conceding six in return.
San Diego boasted the third-best offensive record in the Western Conference, scoring 64 goals across 34 games. Defensively, they conceded only 41 goals, fewer than all but three teams in the conference.
Portland, on the other hand, have struggled defensively recently, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last nine games across all competitions.
Prediction
Both teams are somewhat closely matched going into the weekend; however, the Timbers will have their work cut out if they want to secure a win despite having home advantage. San Diego will rely on their superior offensive quality but must avoid complacency to ensure a positive result.
Prediction: Portland Timbers 1 – 2 San Diego FC
Betting Tips
- Tip 1 – Result: San Diego to win
- Tip 2 – Goals Over/Under 2.5: Over 2.5 goals (Four of Portland’s last five matches have produced more than 2.5 goals)
- Tip 3 – Both Teams to Score: Yes (Both teams have scored in six of San Diego’s last eight games)