Both Among the Favorites to Dethrone New York City FC
The MLS returns this weekend with a bang! Fixture 1 includes a matchup that could end up being a preview of the Grand Finale. First, we’ve the Portland Timbers, the 2021 runners-up. Then, we’ve the New England Revolution, the best team during the 2021 regular season.
The first game is always tricky but playing at home allows Portland to control the soccer odds at +135. That makes New England a very tempting underdog and that won’t happen much throughout the season.
Another Shot for the Portland Timbers
Last season, the Portland Timbers proved that there’s no need to finish the regular season atop the standings. They finished fourth in the Western Conference, six points behind first place, but managed to play the MLS Cup Final.
Regarding the Western Conference, only Sporting KC (58) scored more goals than Portland (56). However, the Timbers finished with the second-worst defensive record after allowing 52 goals. That’s why they selected left back Justin Rasmussen in the first round of the 2022 MLS Draft. They also picked center back Sivert Haugli.
More good news for them is they managed to retain Sebastian Blanco. Last season, he scored nine goals and led the team in assists. Only Felipe Mora and Dairon Asprilla scored more goals. The problem is that Mora won’t be available for the start of the season due to injury.
The Timbers lost one of their last 10 games at Providence Park. Plus, they scored two or more goals in nine of those games. I’m telling you; this is one of those cases in which playing at home truly increases the betting online value.
Portland Timbers predicted lineup: Aljaz Ivacic; Josecarlos Van Rankin, Larrys Mabiala, Dario Zuparic, Claudio Bravo; Diego Chara, Cristhian Paredes, Yimmi Chara, Santiago Moreno, Dairon Asprilla; Jaroslaw Niezgoda.
New England Revolution: Now or Never
The New England Revolution losing in the Conference Semifinals was a shocker. First, they finished atop the Eastern Conference with a 19-point advantage over second place. Also, Bruce Arena won Head Coach of the Year, Carles Gil won MVP, and Matt Turner won Best Goalkeeper.
Overall, we’re talking about a balanced team. Offensively, Gil and Gustavo Bou lead the way. During the 2021 regular season, no other team scored more goals than them with 65. On top of that, New England recently signed veteran striker Jozy Altidore.
Defensively, they barely allowed one goal per game. As I mentioned before, Turner had a great season, enough to become the National Team starter. For the upcoming season, they promoted outside back Ryan Spaulding from Revolution II. You know what they say, the more the merrier.
Here’s another reason for you to consider including the Revolution in your soccer picks. Last season, they only lost three games when playing on the road. As if that wasn’t enough, they’re offering a +220 price.
No major injuries to report here. New England Revolution projected lineup: Matt Turner; Brandon Bye, Henry Kessler, Andrew Farrell, DeJuan Jones; Matt Polster, Thomas McNamara, Teal Bunbury, Carles Gil; Adam Buksa; Gustavo Bou.
Portland Timbers vs New England Revolution Head to Head
- Previous Matches: 10
- Portland Timbers Victories: 2 (12 goals)
- New England Revolution Victories: 1 (8 goals)
- Draws: 7
These two haven’t met since 2019. The game, in Portland, finished 2-2. Jeremy Ebobisse scored twice for the home side, while Bou and Gil did it for the visitors. Ebobisse now plays for the San Jose Earthquakes.
Curiously enough, the last four meetings between the two ended with a draw. Don’t worry, both scored in each game. In fact, they’ve drawn 0-0 only once and it was in 2013.
Portland Timbers vs New England Revolution Game Information
- Date: Saturday, February 26
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Providence Park, Portland
- Portland Timbers vs New England Revolution Live Stream: fuboTV
Portland Timbers vs New England Revolution Betting Lines
| Team | Handicap | Moneyline | Total | Team Total |
| Portland | pk -155 | +135 | 3 +110o | 1½+105o / 1½-135u |
| New England | pk +125 | +220 | 3 -140u | 1½+155o / 1½ -190u |
| Draw | +230 |
Portland Timbers vs New England Revolution Prediction
As I mentioned before, the first game of the season is always a tricky one. The Portland Timbers won their last friendly match 3-0 over Real Salt Lake. On the other hand, the New England Revolution haven’t played since February 5. They were preparing to face AS Cavaly in the CONCACAF Champions League, but both games were suspended.
It all boils down to rhythm vs. fresher legs, that’s why I think the drawing trend will continue. If you want to mix things up a little, also include the under in your online sports betting ticket.
Score Prediction: Portland Timbers 1, New England Revolution 1
