The Portland Timbers reignited their playoff hopes dramatically on Saturday night, pulling off a stunning comeback to keep their Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs dreams alive. With elimination looming, rookie striker Gage Guerra delivered a last-second equalizer in Game 2 of their Round One Best-of-3 Series against San Diego FC, setting the stage for a thrilling 2-2 draw that the Timbers eventually won 3-2 on penalties at Providence Park. The result forces a decisive Game 3, which will take place back in San Diego on November 9. “The whole team, the whole staff, we wanted another week,” said head coach Phil Neville following the victory. “With this attitude, I think we are a very dangerous team in this tournament.” Backed by a roaring home crowd, the eighth-seeded Timbers came out firing. Kristoffer Velde opened the scoring in the 18th minute, igniting the Providence Park faithful and putting the hosts in control early. However, top-seeded San Diego FC responded swiftly with their trademark attacking flair. Mexican international Chucky Lozano, returning from a two-match suspension.

Its going to be a tense MLS playoff showdown as Charlotte FC hosts New York City FC in the decisive third match of their best-of-three series. Read the preview for the Charlotte FC vs New York City FC game. With the tie finely balanced at 1–1, everything is on the line as both teams battle for a place in the second round of the MLS Cup Playoffs. The kickoff is set for Saturday, November 8, 2025, and this winner-takes-all encounter promises to be a fireworks display.Read on for our Charlotte FC vs New York City prediction, betting preview, and expert insights — brought to you by MatchPlug, your trusted source for accurate football predictions and betting tips. Betting Preview for Charlotte FC vs New York City Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina Date: Saturday, November 8th 2025 Time: 8:00 PM ET Teams: Charlotte FC vs New York City Odds (via 1XBet) Betting on Charlotte FC Charlotte FC have shown remarkable resilience and defensive organization throughout this series. After holding New York to a 0–0 draw in the second leg, they went on to win 7–6 on penalties, keeping their playoff dreams alive. Under Dean Smith, The Crown have built their success around a rock-solid backline. They’ve conceded just once in their last four matches and have kept six clean sheets in their last 10, showcasing excellent tactical discipline and compact defending. Charlotte’s home form will be their biggest advantage in this decisive tie. They’ve been extremely difficult to beat at the Bank of America Stadium — losing only twice in their last 12 home games and never dropping back-to-back fixtures at home in that span. This match will be about composure, defensive stability, and capitalizing on moments in attack. Charlotte’s strong home record against New York  should give them confidence heading into this crucial clash. Betting on New York City FC New York City FC will feel they let the opportunity slip away in Game 2. Despite creating several chances and finishing the match strongly, they couldn’t find a breakthrough and ultimately fell short in penalties. Under Pascal Jansen, NYCFC have remained competitive but inconsistent . They’ve lost four of their last six matches, a concerning trend ahead of a high-pressure road game. Still, the visitors can take some encouragement from their two wins in their last three meetings with Charlotte. However, their recent away form has been worrying, with just one win in six road matches. Converting chances and avoiding defensive mistakes will be key if they hope to upset the odds and move on to the next round. MatchPlug Prediction for Charlotte FC vs New York City FC This matchup has all the ingredients for a dramatic playoff finale. Charlotte’s defensive strength, combined with their strong home record, makes them the more stable and confident side heading into Game 3. New York City FC have the talent to make this competitive, but their inconsistency and struggles away from home may prove costly. Charlotte’s organization, momentum, and home support should carry them through. Final Prediction: Charlotte FC Wins

The Utah Jazz will pay tribute to legendary former coach and executive Frank Layden. It will be done this season by wearing a special jersey patch in his honor. Layden, who served as the team’s coach, general manager, and president, passed away on July 9 at the age of 93. The patch will feature the name “FRANK” on the left chest of player jerseys throughout the season. Additionally, players and coaches will wear a “1” circle patch on their warm-up gear, starting with the team’s preseason game against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 8. The No. 1 jersey was retired by the Jazz in 1989 in recognition of Layden’s immense contributions to the franchise, both on and off the court. Layden is remembered as a beloved figure in Utah basketball, known for his humor, and pivotal role in shaping the team’s  success during the 1980s.