After a successful four-match stint to open Banc of California Stadium, LAFC travels to Portland to take on the Timbers on Saturday.
Being put to the test is two unbeaten streaks: LAFC unbeaten in its last 6, while the Timbers have won four in a row.
It's the first-ever match between the two Clubs, and with contingent of LAFC Supporters expected to make the trip to the always raucous Providence Park, this should be a good one. Let's take a closer look at the upcoming match:
Where To Watch/Listen
LAFC At Portland Timbers, May 19 at 12pm PT
TV: FOX
Radio: ESPNLA 710, KFWB 980
Opponent Form
Winners of its last four matches, Portland is a perfect three out of three at home this season. The Timbers come into the match with LAFC having not conceded a single goal in their last three matches.
What The Players Are Saying
Steven Beitashour on the Timbers' form: "They didn't start off well, that's for sure. But right now, they are on a good roll. They're dangerous. They're dangerous on the counter, I think right now they are very organized defensively, and they'e got a great crowd as well that are going to push them. They are going to be playing from start to finish, so we have to make sure that we really match that energy."
LAFC Projected Starting XI
(4-3-3): Tyler Miller; Steven Beitashour, Laurent Ciman, Walker Zimmerman, Omar Gaber; Eduard Atuesta, Benny Feilhaber, Mark-Anthony Kaye; Diego Rossi, Carlos Vela, Latif Blessing.
What To Watch For
Vela On The Score Sheet: With six goals and five assists, Carlos Vela is currently tied for most combined goals and assists in MLS (Ignacio Piatti and Miguel Almiron are tied with Vela). The Mexican international found the back of the net against NYCFC after going three matches without a goal. He's going up against a Portland defense that has been very stingy as of late though.
Portland's Shutout Streak: Winners of its last four matches, Portland hasn't conceded a goal in 331 minutes. Prior to its current four-match winning streak, the Timbers had conceded 12 times in five matches.
Bradley Moving Up The Ranks: Bob Bradley (130) is currently tied with Frank Yallop for fourth in all-time MLS wins for a head coach. A win on Saturday would move him into sole possession of fourth on the list, and 28 wins shy of Dominic Kinnear in third place.
