The Colorado Rapids and Portland Timbers are set to face off in an exciting MLS Western Conference matchup on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions early in the season, making this a compelling contest.
Team Overview
- Colorado Rapids (2-0-2): The Rapids are off to an unbeaten start this season, sitting fourth in the Western Conference with eight points from four matches. They are coming off back-to-back road victories, including a hard-fought 2-1 win over the San Jose Earthquakes. Colorado has shown resilience and defensive discipline, conceding just three goals so far. At home, however, they have yet to secure a win this season, with two draws in their first two matches.
- Portland Timbers (1-2-1): The Timbers have had a rocky start to the season, currently 12th in the Western Conference with four points from four matches. They are coming off a 1-1 draw against the LA Galaxy, where they conceded a late equalizer. Portland has struggled on the road, going winless in their last eight away matches across all competitions. Despite their inconsistent form, the Timbers remain a dangerous side with a history of strong performances against Colorado.
Key Players to Watch
- Colorado Rapids:
- Rafael Navarro: The Brazilian striker has been in fine form, scoring the decisive goal in the Rapids’ 1-0 win over Austin FC earlier this season. His ability to lead the line will be crucial for Colorado.
- Calvin Harris: The substitute forward scored the winner against San Jose and has been a valuable impact player for the Rapids.
- Adam Beaudry: With Zack Steffen away on international duty, Beaudry is expected to start in goal. This will be his first MLS appearance of the season, and his performance will be key to Colorado’s defensive stability.
- Portland Timbers:
- Felipe Mora: The veteran forward scored Portland’s only goal against the Galaxy and remains a reliable attacking option.
- Santiago Moreno: The midfielder recently recorded his 35th career MLS assist, surpassing Diego Chara for third-most in Timbers history. His creativity will be vital for Portland’s attack.
- Dario Zuparic: The center-back will need to lead Portland’s defense and contain Colorado’s attacking threats.
Recent Form
- Colorado Rapids: The Rapids are unbeaten in their last four matches, with two wins and two draws. They have shown defensive resilience and the ability to grind out results, making them one of the more consistent teams in the league so far.
- Portland Timbers: Portland has struggled for consistency, with one win, one draw, and two losses in their first four matches. Their inability to close out games has been a recurring issue, as seen in their draw against the Galaxy.
Injury Updates
- Colorado Rapids: The Rapids are dealing with several injuries, including Theodore Ku-DiPietro (shoulder), Jackson Travis (toe), and Sam Vines (hamstring). Conor Ronan is also expected to miss the match due to a hamstring problem.
- Portland Timbers: The Timbers are without Juan David Mosquera Lopez, Miguel Araujo, and Jonathan Rodriguez due to injuries. These absences could impact their defensive depth.
Game Dynamics
Colorado’s home advantage and unbeaten start to the season make them favorites in this matchup. The Rapids will look to control possession and create chances through Navarro and Harris, while Portland will rely on Mora and Moreno to exploit any defensive lapses. The midfield battle will be crucial, with both teams aiming to dictate the tempo and transition effectively.
