The Vancouver Whitecaps host the Portland Timbers at BC Place in Major League Soccer action on Saturday.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs Portland Timbers preview
The Vancouver Whitecaps are reeling from their disastrous performance against Los Angeles FC in the CONCACAF Champions League. The hosts were led to a clean-up, 3-0, in front of the home fans on Thursday, leaving their continental campaign in tatters.
“We don’t need to think about it for long. We have a crucial game”, said coach Vanni Sartini.
The blue and whites have added a victory in six league games, losing twice and drawing three, which places them in 19th place in the standings with six points. They will be looking to make the most of their home-field advantage before hitting the road for their next two matches. The last meeting between the two sides ended in a 1-1 draw at Providence Park.
The Portland Timbers are looking for their second win of the season after a successful 1-0 Game 1 opener against Kansas City on Day 1. They have drawn twice and lost three since, and currently sit 23rd with five points. The visitors are yet to win on the road this term after three trips.
The Timbers have identified the goal of winning the ultimate prize this season. But their campaign has been derailed by a series of injuries, particularly to midfield and attack, with six players yet to return to action. Last season’s top scorer, Dairon Asprilla (10 goals), has resumed light training after knee surgery, but is still unavailable.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs Portland Timbers Head to Head and Key Numbers
- Vancouver has won twice, tied once and lost twice in its last five games against Portland.
- Vancouver has won twice and lost three times in its last five games against Portland at BC Place.
- Vancouver has won twice, drawn once and lost twice in its last five home games.
- Portland has won once, tied twice and lost twice in its last five road games.
- Vancouver has won once, drawn twice and lost twice in its last five games. Meanwhile, Portland has tied twice and lost three times in their most recent five meetings.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs Portland Timbers Prediction
Simon Becher (three goals, one assist) and Julian Gressel (one goal, three assists) have been standouts for the hosts so far.
Juan David Mosquera has a goal and an assist for the visitors, while Tega Ikoba and Franck Boli have scored once each.
Vancouver Whitecaps will fight to avoid another straight loss in front of their home crowd.
Prediction: Vancouver Whitecaps 2-1 Portland Timbers
Vancouver Whitecaps vs Portland Timbers Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result – Vancouver Whitecaps
Tip 2: Play to have more than 2.5 goals – Yes
Tip 3: Vancouver Whitecaps Score First – Yes
Tip 4: Portland Timbers – Yes