The Portland Timbers are set to host Austin FC in a crucial midweek matchup at Providence Park on October 2, 2024, with significant implications for the playoff standings. The Timbers, currently in 9th place with 45 points (12-10-9), are on the cusp of securing a playoff spot, while Austin FC, sitting in 11th place with 36 points (9-13-9), face an uphill battle to stay in contention.
Match Details and Broadcast
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM PT at Providence Park. Fans can secure their seats for the game through the official Timbers website. The match will be broadcast live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, with no blackouts or restrictions, and can also be streamed with Spanish-language commentary. Additionally, the game will be broadcast on radio locally in English on iHeart Radios Alt 97.5 and in Spanish on Univisions TUDN Radio Austin (104.3-HD2, KLQB-FM).
Team Form and Statistics
The Portland Timbers have been strong at home, recording eleven wins, two losses, and four draws in 17 official games at Providence Park in the 2024 season. They have not lost at home since May 12, boasting an impressive 8-0-2 record in that period. The Timbers have also been undefeated when leading at halftime at home this season, with a 5-0-2 record in such situations.
Austin FC, on the other hand, has struggled to replicate their Leagues Cup form in the MLS season. Despite shocking Mexican giants Pumas and Monterrey in the Leagues Cup, they have managed only one win since their Round of 32 exit. In their last five matches, Austin FC has a record of 0-3-2 and are nine points away from the ninth and final playoff berth currently held by Portland.
Key Players and Performances
For the Portland Timbers, key players include Jonathan Rodriguez, who has scored seven goals, Evander Ferreira with six goals and six assists, and Felipe Mora with five goals. The team's defensive solidity is anchored by goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau.
Austin FC relies on Colombian forward Jder Obrian, who leads the team with seven goals and four assists. Designated Player Sebastin Driussi has contributed five goals and two assists, while midfielder Alex Ring has been involved in nine goals (two goals, seven assists). Defensively, Julio Cascante and Brendan Hines-Ike are crucial, with Brad Stuver playing every minute in MLS for Austin FC this year.
Predictions and Odds
Given the form and home advantage, the Portland Timbers are favored to win. The predicted scoreline is Portland Timbers 2, Austin FC 1, with the Timbers available to back at -1 on the Asian Handicap. The odds reflect Portland's strong home record and Austin's recent struggles.
Historically, Portland has had the upper hand in this rivalry, winning five of the last eight head-to-head meetings, including consecutive victories by 2-1 and 2-0 scorelines at Q2 Stadium.
For those interested in the broader context of Major League Soccer, understanding the league's structure and playoff system can provide additional insight into the significance of this match.
As the season enters its final stretch, every point counts, and this match could be pivotal in determining the playoff fate of both teams. With the Timbers on the brink of securing a playoff spot and Austin FC fighting to stay in contention, the intensity and stakes are high for this midweek clash.
