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We have an intriguing Major League Soccer encounter coming up as Toronto FC face Portland Timbers at BMO Field. Scheduled for a late kickoff at 00:30, this match could greatly shape the outlook of both teams as we approach the midpoint of the season.
Toronto FC find themselves struggling in the 28th position with just 14 points from 19 games. Their recent form has been troubling, with no wins in their last four fixtures (DLLLW). Adding to their woes, significant injuries to key players such as Federico Bernardeschi and Jonathan Osorio leave them severely weakened. This puts their coach, Robin Fraser, in a tight spot needing to motivate his side to perform without their usual linchpins.
On the other hand, Portland Timbers, sitting comfortably in the 9th position with 30 points, come into this match as the bookmakers’ favourites with odds of 2.32 to win. The Timbers have shown decent form with two wins in their last five games (DWWLL), driven by the attacking prowess of their top scorer Antony, who has netted 6 goals this season.
The absence of clean sheets in the last five games for both sides suggests we might see a few goals. Despite both teams’ patchy form defensively, Portland Timbers’ solid offensive unit, led by Antony and experienced coach Phil Neville, gives them the edge.
Given Toronto’s ongoing struggles and the Timbers’ superior standing, a recommended bet would be backing Portland Timbers to secure a win.
So, as the Major League Soccer season rolls on, all eyes will be on BMO Field to see if the underdog can rise or whether the favourites will march on.
Given the current form and injuries, this match presents a solid opportunity for a bet. Here’s our prediction and recommended betting tip.
Toronto FC vs Portland Timbers Prediction | |
---|---|
Betting tip | Odds |
Portland Timbers to win | 2.32 |
Portland Timbers, despite being away, seem poised to capitalize on Toronto FC’s current slump and secure a win.
Here’s a quick look at the betting odds for the upcoming match at BMO Field:
Toronto FC vs Portland Timbers Betting Odds | |
---|---|
Bet | Odds |
Toronto FC to win | 2.87 |
Draw | 3.38 |
Portland Timbers to win | 2.32 |
The bookies have pegged the Portland Timbers as the slight favorites, given their superior form and standing this season. However, MLS games can always provide surprises, and with both teams lacking recent clean sheets, goals may flow freely.
Considering Toronto’s home advantage and despite their struggles, there is always a possibility for an upset, making this a match worth watching.
Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
---|---|---|---|---|
Toronto FC | New York Red Bulls | 2025-06-25 | Major League Soccer | 1-1 (Draw) |
Toronto FC | Charlotte FC | 2025-05-31 | Major League Soccer | 0-2 (Loss) |
Toronto FC | Philadelphia Union | 2025-05-28 | Major League Soccer | 1-2 (Loss) |
Toronto FC | Nashville SC | 2025-05-24 | Major League Soccer | 1-2 (Loss) |
CF Montreal | Toronto FC | 2025-05-17 | Major League Soccer | 1-6 (Win) |
Recent Form: DLLLW
Toronto FC has struggled to find consistent form, securing only one win in their last five matches, including a stunning 6-1 away victory against CF Montreal. However, they’ve since followed up with two losses and a draw, indicating a turbulent period.
Toronto’s defense has been particularly leaky, conceding an average of 1.4 goals per game this season. They’ve failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches, which has increased pressure on their attack to compensate. Despite these defensive woes, they have managed to score an average of 1.8 goals per game in recent fixtures, showing some offensive promise.
Light at the end of the tunnel might come from their attacking potential, but they must tighten up defensively to climb up from their current 28th position in the standings.
Individual Battles to Watch:
Expected lineup for Toronto FC:
Toronto FC are grappling with a significant injury list that could heavily impact their match against the Portland Timbers. The absence of key players will undoubtedly be felt across multiple positions.
Player | Injury | Expected return |
---|---|---|
Nicksoen Gomis | Muscle injury | Early July 2025 |
Kobe Franklin | Ankle injury | Early July 2025 |
Federico Bernardeschi | Muscle injury | Early July 2025 |
Jonathan Osorio | Muscle injury | Mid-July 2025 |
Markus Cimermancic | Muscle injury | Mid-July 2025 |
These injuries will hinder Toronto’s ability to field their best XI, with particularly notable absences like Federico Bernardeschi leaving a large void in their attacking prowess. The team’s depth will be put to the test as they struggle to pull out of a slump and improve their standings in the league.
Toronto FC Tactical Breakdown:
Toronto FC will likely deploy a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to bolster their attack with a trio of forwards, including Ola Brynhildsen at the center, flanked by Derrick Etienne Jr. and Theo Corbeanu on the wings.
In the midfield, the combination of Alonso Coello Camarero, Maxime Dominguez, and Matthew Longstaff will seek to control the tempo and support both defensive and attacking transitions.
The defensive line, composed of Monlouis, Long, Rosted, and Petretta, will need to tighten up to address their recent struggles, given the absence of clean sheets in the last five games.
Toronto tends to score most of their goals between the 61st and 75th minute, reflecting a strategy of applying intense pressure in the latter stages of the match to capitalize on opponent fatigue.
The Portland Timbers have been riding a wave of mixed results, encapsulating their last five matches as DWWLL. During this spell, they have secured two victories, one draw, and suffered two defeats.
Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
---|---|---|---|---|
Portland Timbers | San Jose Earthquakes | 2025-06-14 | Major League Soccer | 1-1 (Draw) |
Portland Timbers | St. Louis City | 2025-06-08 | Major League Soccer | 2-1 (Win) |
Portland Timbers | Colorado Rapids | 2025-05-29 | Major League Soccer | 2-1 (Win) |
Orlando City | Portland Timbers | 2025-05-24 | Major League Soccer | 0-1 (Loss) |
San Jose Earthquakes | Portland Timbers | 2025-05-21 | US Open Cup | 0-0 (Loss AET) |
The team has displayed resilience, managing to claw out crucial wins against St. Louis City and Colorado Rapids. However, their lone draw and back-to-back losses indicate vulnerabilities, especially in away fixtures.
Notably, Portland’s average goals scored over the last five games stand at 1.00, underlining the need for more clinical finishing. Moreover, they’ve struggled to keep clean sheets, adding pressure on their defensive line.
Despite these challenges, the Portland Timbers, led by their top scorer Antony with six goals, remain a competitive side, standing 9th with 30 points. Their efforts are commendable in a tightly contested league.
For the Portland Timbers, the attacking duo and solid midfield presence will be key players to watch. Antony, the top scorer with six goals, is expected to lead the charge. His knack for finding the back of the net and creative playmaking will be crucial against Toronto FC’s defense.
In the midfield, Santiago Moreno and Diego Chara are expected to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively. Moreno’s ability to link up with Antony could be a decisive factor in breaking down Toronto’s backline.
Defensively, Finn Surman and Dario Zuparic must stand strong to nullify Toronto’s attacking threats, especially with Federico Bernardeschi sidelined.
Expected lineup for Portland Timbers:
For the Portland Timbers, the injury list is relatively short but includes some critical players. Zac McGraw is ruled out with a back injury and is expected to return in early July 2025. Jonathan Rodriguez is also sidelined with a muscle injury, and similar to McGraw, his anticipated return is early July 2025.
On a positive note, there are no suspensions affecting Portland, allowing head coach Phil Neville some flexibility in squad selection. This boost will be essential as Portland aims to capitalize on Toronto FC’s struggles and secure a crucial away win at BMO Field.
Portland Timbers Tactical Breakdown:
Phil Neville prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to solidify the midfield and strengthen the defensive line.
Attack:
Antony has been crucial, not just defensively but also pushing forward, evidenced by his tally of 6 goals this season. Felipe Mora leads the line, supported by Santiago Moreno and David Costa on the flanks.
Midfield:
The double pivot of Diego Chara and David Ayala provides defensive stability and builds up play. Chara’s experience alongside Ayala’s energy makes them a formidable duo in transitions.
Defense:
The back four, with Antony and Juan Mosquera as full-backs, focus on tight marking and suppressing opposition wingers. Zuparic marshals the defense with Surman, aiming for discipline and cohesion.
Strategy:
Portland Timbers often focus on explosive attacks during the second half, particularly during the 61-75 minute interval, making the most of the opponents’ fatigue.
With no current suspensions, Phil Neville has a well-rounded squad to press Toronto FC at BMO Field.
Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
---|---|---|---|---|
Toronto FC | Portland Timbers | 2022-08-13 | Major League Soccer | 3-1 (Win) |
Toronto FC | Portland Timbers | 2019-04-27 | Major League Soccer | 1-2 (Loss) |
Portland Timbers | Toronto FC | 2018-08-30 | Major League Soccer | 2-0 (Loss) |
Toronto FC | Portland Timbers | 2017-08-12 | Major League Soccer | 4-1 (Win) |
Portland Timbers | Toronto FC | 2016-05-01 | Major League Soccer | 2-1 (Loss) |
In their last five meetings, Toronto FC holds two victories, while Portland Timbers have clinched three wins. The most recent encounter saw Toronto FC triumphing 3-1 at BMO Field in August 2022.
This gives Toronto FC some confidence despite their current form. Can they reignite past successes at home? Or will the in-form Timbers continue their strong season?
Odds accurate as of 27.06.2025 00:31, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.