Austin FC will look to continue their high-scoring form on the road against the Portland Timbers.

Austin is coming off big wins against Cincinnati and Inter Miami, so you know they have all the confidence in the world on their trip to Oregon. Ten goals over two games, and third in MLS expected goals, show the quality of the squad’s attacking product.

With all the firepower ATXFC is equipped with right now, you can see the club having a similar performance against a Portland side that has a zero in their win column this season.

About the Opponent

The Timbers are searching for a win after drawing their first two matches: a home opener against New England and away against LAFC. Both games played out differently, but the results were the same, with Portland feeling like there was more to be desired.

Their game with the Revs was back and forth — but Yimmi Chara came through with an unbelievable bicycle to earn a point at home.

In their match against Los Angeles, they took the lead with a Yimmi Chara bicycle kick in the 18^th minute. The match finished with Portland’s defense finally caving and giving up the tying goal in extra time.

The main player to look for is the aforementioned bike king Yimmi Chara. The Colombian international is a household MLS name — he has a knack for spectacular goals. He provides a spark whenever Portland needs one. If Austin wants to hold possession and be dominant in the attack, they need to make sure Yimmi is marked. Limit his attacks, you limit their chances.

Score Prediction

In the last two games, Portland sat in a 4-4-2 and did their damage by being direct. Against New England, they used that directness to fight back. Against LAFC, as soon as they took the lead early, they sat back defensively and soaked up all the pressure that their opponents had thrown until late.

This is a match where the Verde has to be careful about Portland attacking in transition. The center halves along with Ring and Pereira will have to stay focused on not giving up anything simple when not in possession.

Final Score:
Austin 3
Portland 1

Please tell us Austin FC’s Jhojan Valencia will get to play significant minutes against fellow Cali, Colombia natives, the Chara brothers. We’re here for that midfield battle.

Kit Matchup

A sea of green on Saturday. Portland is green. Austin is green. The pitch will be green. You get the point.

Player Injury Report

No Injuries

Matchday

Austin FC kicks off against Portland Timbers on Saturday, March 12 at 9:00pm at Providence Park.

• TV: The CW Austin, UniMas Austin (Spanish)
• Streaming: MLS Live on ESPN+, AustinFC.com, Austin FC App, Univision.com (Spanish), Univision Austin App (Spanish)
• Radio: KASE-FM (Alt 97.5), KLQB-FM (104.3 HD-2)

(Cover Photo Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports)

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