LAFC Faces Timbers with Key Players Out This Saturday

PORTLAND, Ore. — Los Angeles FC (LAFC) returns to the field this Saturday, April 19, for a critical matchup against the Portland Timbers at Providence Park. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. PT. The Black & Gold are aiming to improve their position in the Western Conference standings after several weeks of training without midweek matches.

LAFC will enter the game with two players officially ruled out: Lorenzo Dellavalle, who is sidelined with a left thigh injury, and Maxime Chanot, who is dealing with a head injury. Meanwhile, both teams are coming off contrasting results, with LAFC winning their last match against the San Jose Earthquakes 2-1, while the Timbers recently secured a convincing 4-2 victory over Sporting Kansas City.

“We’re looking to build on the momentum from last week,” said LAFC head coach Steven Cherundolo during a pre-match press conference. “The team has had the chance to rest and prepare strategically, which is crucial.” LAFC currently has a record of 4 wins, 4 losses, and no draws, totaling 12 points in the league.

In contrast, the Portland Timbers boast a strong record of 4 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, placing them fourth in the Western Conference with 14 points. They are on a five-match unbeaten stretch, which they aim to extend against LAFC. The Timbers have found success during this run, particularly with young talents such as forward Kevin Kelsy, who scored twice last match and is becoming a key player for the team.

“We’re excited to face a quality opponent like LAFC,” said Timbers head coach Phil Neville. “The atmosphere in Providence Park is always electric, and our players thrive in this environment.”

Historically, the matchups between LAFC and the Timbers have been fiercely competitive, with the all-time series slightly favoring LAFC. They have recorded 8 wins, 6 losses, and 6 draws across all competitions. However, the Timbers have proven tough opposition, having only failed to score in one of their 17 meetings thus far.

“Every match against Portland is a battle,” Cherundolo acknowledged. “They have a strong home advantage, and we’ll need to start strong.” Last season’s encounters between the two clubs included thrilling moments, one being a dramatic late goal by Denis Bouanga securing a win for LAFC at home.

The weather forecast for Saturday predicts temperatures in the 50s with a 45% chance of rain, adding another layer of challenge for both teams as they navigate the artificial surface at Providence Park. The Timbers’ home stadium is known for its unique playing conditions, which may impact how the game unfolds.

Fans can watch the match live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, FS1, or listen on local radio stations. As LAFC seeks to push above the .500 mark for the first time since March, every point counts in this tightly contested Western Conference.