The match held this Saturday between the Timbers and Minnesota concluded with a 1-1 tie between the two teams.
The second half started positively for Minnesota United, as Anthony Markanich found the back of the net in the 76th minute. However, Portland Timbers leveled the score with a goal from Omir Fernández just a minute into the second half.
Markanich electrified the stadium with his header at the 76th minute. After receiving a corner from Julian Gressel, the defender outmaneuvered his marker in the box, connecting with the ball to direct it past the goalkeeper into the left post.
In a dramatic turn of events, Juan Mosquera came close to altering the outcome in the 90th minute, but his shot hit the post, denying Portland the victory.
Omir Fernández was undoubtedly the standout player, scoring the crucial equalizer for the Timbers.
Another key performer for Minnesota United was Anthony Markanich, who contributed with his goal and made two crucial clearances to protect his team’s defense.
Portland’s head coach, Phil Neville, opted for a 4-3-3 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal; Juan Mosquera, Dario Zuparic, Finn Surman, and Jimer Fory making up the backline; a midfield trio of David Ayala, Ariel Lassiter, and Cristhian Paredes; and a forward line consisting of Santiago Moreno, Felipe Mora, and Ian Smith.
On the other hand, Eric Ramsay’s Minnesota lined up in a 5-4-1 formation, featuring Dayne St. Clair as goalkeeper; a defensive line of Julian Gressel, Morris Duggan, Jefferson Díaz, Nicolás Romero, and Joseph Rosales; a midfield comprised of Joaquín Pereyra, Carlos Harvey, Robin Lod, and Bongokuhle Hlongwane; with Tani Oluwaseyi leading the attack.
Referee Ricardo Fierro officiated the match, ensuring fair play.
Looking ahead, the Timbers will travel to face Vancouver Whitecaps FC, while Minnesota will visit St. Louis City at Energizer Park.
Substitutions in Portland Timbers
55’ 2H – Ariel Lassiter was substituted for Gage Guerra
73’ 2H – David Ayala was replaced by Diego Chará, Felipe Mora by Kevin Kelsy, and Joseph Rosales by Owen Gene
85’ 2H – Cristhian Paredes came off for Omir Fernández
Yellow Cards in Portland Timbers:
42’ 1H – Ariel Lassiter (Unsporting behaviour)
Substitutions in Minnesota United
45’ 2H – Nicolás Romero was substituted for Michael Boxall and Carlos Harvey for Wil Trapp
60’ 2H – Bongokuhle Hlongwane was replaced by Anthony Markanich
70’ 2H – Joaquín Pereyra came off for Kelvin Yeaboah
Yellow Cards in Minnesota United:
39’ 1H – Nicolás Romero (Unsporting behaviour), 44’ 1H – Carlos Harvey (Holding the opponent to prevent advancement), and 64’ 2H – Joaquín Pereyra (Unsporting behaviour)