Portland vs Seattle Picks and Prediction – 10/20/2024

The Portland Timbers will face their fierce rivals, the Seattle Sounders, at Lumen Field on October 19, 2024, in a high-stakes Cascadia Cup showdown. This iconic rivalry, one of the fiercest in MLS, brings added intensity as both teams are looking to secure crucial points to improve their playoff positioning. Get in on all the action with our free soccer picks.

The Seattle Sounders, currently in solid form, sit higher in the standings and come into the match with confidence. Led by forward Raúl Ruidíaz, who has netted 15 goals this season, and playmaker Nicolás Lodeiro, Seattle has been efficient offensively. Defensively, Seattle has been strong as well, with goalkeeper Stefan Frei having notched several clean sheets, solidifying their backline.

Portland, meanwhile, is fighting to climb the standings and secure a postseason spot. They have leaned heavily on forward Evander, who has been their most productive player with 10 goals and 8 assists this season. However, the Timbers have struggled with consistency, particularly on the road. Coach Giovanni Savarese will look to inspire a stronger defensive effort to counteract Seattle's home advantage and potent attack. Portland's success will largely depend on Evander's ability to find space in front of goal, and he has a knack for it.

This is sure to be an intense rivalry match between two talented teams. We have been burned on Portland a few times this year, so we are not eager to back them. Fortunately in this matchup, Seattle is a great team at home, and has the balanced lineup needed to win. Prediction: Sounders win 2-1.