Western Conference Showdown: Timbers vs. St. Louis CITY SC Preview
A refreshed St. Louis side visits Portland as both clubs seek a turning point in their seasons
The Western Conference table is tight, and Sunday night’s clash at Providence Park (7 pm ET | MLS Season Pass, Apple TV+) promises high stakes and even higher intensity. As Portland Timbers try to build home momentum, a rejuvenated St. Louis CITY SC aims to keep trending upward under interim coach David Critchley.
Here’s what to watch for as two clubs with postseason ambitions collide:
Portland’s Home Stretch Opportunity
After enduring a travel-heavy first half of the season, the Timbers finally have a favorable run: four of their next five games are at home. Last week’s 2-1 win over Colorado hinted at progress—more fluid rotations, stronger pressing, and a system that seems to suit Phil Neville’s group better.
The switch to a 4-2-3-1 has been key. Midfield general David Ayala continues to impress with his range and poise, while Brazilian winger Antony has become a sparkplug out wide. The missing piece? DP David Da Costa fully asserting himself in the No. 10 role. He’s shown flashes but hasn’t quite taken over a game—yet.
Player to Watch: David Da Costa
Portland’s playmaker was signed to replace Evander, and while the adaptation has been gradual, the quality is clear. Sunday’s match presents a chance for him to command the attack and become the centerpiece Neville envisioned.
St. Louis CITY’s Tactical Reboot
St. Louis CITY snapped a winless skid in dramatic fashion last week, with a 94th-minute winner over San Jose in Critchley’s coaching debut. Gone was the rigid, defensive-first system under former coach Olof Mellberg. In its place: a 4-2-3-1 setup that encouraged freedom, movement, and youth.
The midfield looked revitalized with Marcel Hartel pushed into an advanced role. Eduard Löwen returned to stabilize possession, and Roman Bürki was back in net after injury. The result? A team that looked proactive rather than reactive, completing nearly 60% more final-third passes than the week before.
Breakout Combo to Watch: Hartel & Reid
Marcel Hartel operating as a free-roaming playmaker behind the striker gives CITY real creative bite. Pair him with Jayden Reid’s overlapping runs from left back, and the visitors suddenly have weapons that can unlock Portland’s defense.
Injury Watch: Jonathan Rodríguez (Portland)
The Timbers’ Designated Player striker has played just 149 minutes this season due to knee issues. With the transfer window approaching, questions about his future are mounting. If he’s not ready to contribute soon, a roster move could be imminent.
What’s at Stake
Both teams are navigating transitions. Portland is beginning to show signs of life under Neville’s system and needs to capitalize on this home stretch. For St. Louis, Critchley’s CITY 2-influenced style might be the jolt needed to turn their season around.
Sunday isn’t just about points—it’s a midseason litmus test. One club could launch forward, while the other might find itself stuck in neutral.
