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.
