Timbers Kick Off 50th Season Against Whitecaps in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The Portland Timbers are set to launch their 50th anniversary season this Sunday with a match against their Cascadia rivals, Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. PT at Providence Park, and fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via the Apple TV app in both English and Spanish, as well as on local radio broadcasts.

The Timbers, founded in 1975, have been an integral part of Portland’s sports culture, earning the moniker “Soccer City USA”. This season marks their 50th year in professional soccer, and today’s match is also the first in the ongoing competition for the Cascadia Cup, which involves Portland, Vancouver, and Seattle Sounders FC.

Head coach Phil Neville expressed optimism about the team’s evolution, noting, “There’s going to be a new identity and a new style of play because the players are different.” Among the significant changes is the recent departure of last year’s standout player, Evander, who was transferred to Cincinnati for a record $12 million fee. General Manager Ned Grabavoy acknowledged the challenges of moving on from a key player but emphasized the need for a fresh start.

“It’s a big, big decision, but we felt it was necessary for the group to move on,” Grabavoy said. In the absence of several key players, including Jonathan Rodríguez and Santiago Moreno, the Timbers will look to their strong foundation of retained talent, including club legend Diego Chará. Chará is poised to make history today by becoming the first player in MLS history to play 400 regular-season matches with a single club. Currently at 399 matches, he ranks among the top 10 players all-time in games started and minutes played.

“I think the team is really comfortable,” Chará said about the squad’s preparation. “They create a great energy, and I think that’s going to be valued this year.” While the team looks forward to a season filled with promise, fans are particularly excited about this new lineup.

The Timbers are not only making changes on the field but also enhancing the matchday experience off of it. Park Provisions will provide a revamped menu featuring new items like a Korean dumpling salad, tuna poke bowls, and fried chicken sandwiches. The club also plans to host guest chefs from renowned local restaurants throughout the season, enhancing the culinary offerings at matches.

The nature of the Cascadia Derby adds significant anticipation to the match. Historically, the Timbers lead the all-time series against Vancouver with a record of 17 wins, 12 losses, and 8 draws. The Timbers are also coming off a sixth Cascadia Cup title, confirming their status in this intense regional rivalry.

As the club embarks on what it hopes to be a celebratory and successful 50th season, the match against the Whitecaps will be a critical test for this revamped roster. The Timbers are eager to commence their journey towards another successful campaign in Major League Soccer.