The MLS is Back Tournament is already a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS worthy tourney but on Tuesday night in Orlando could send a very successful event over the top. Portland Timbers versus Orlando City SC has the makings of being a thrilling match with Orlando surprising many with a run into the finals.
Orlando came out of Group A with seven points after posting a 2-0-1 record while the Timbers came out of Group F with the very same record.
Following the group stages Orlando defeated the Montreal Impact 1-0, defeated LAFC in penalties, and defeated Minnesota United 3-1. As for Portland, they beat FC Cincinnati in penalties, defeated NYCFC 3-1, and then beat the Philadelphia Union 2-1.
Orlando’s success while has come to a surprise to many the culture change under Head Coach Óscar Pareja has been well documented. In this tournament we have seen a well rested and dominating Nani for the first time in MLS. The Portuguese super-star isn’t the only firepower up top for Orlando with Chris Mueller posting a break-out tournament with three goals. Also aiding Orlando’s efforts is goalkeeper Pedro Gallese who through six matches this season has a GAA of just .83 goals makign 16 saves on 21 shots.
On the Portland side of things the Timbers have had disappointing results in previous seasons but their talent has never been doubted. Leading the way is midfielder Sebastian Blanco who through six matches has scored three goals and recorded five assists. Behind him is who has Diego Valeri two goals and three assists. How has Portland done without Brian Fernandez? Their forward Jeremy Ebobisse has four goals on the season and Jaroslaw Niezgod has two.
Fans can watch the final of the MLS is Back Tournament at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and TSN.
