Two teams, Austin FC and Portland Timbers, all dressed up in their nicest shorts and cleats, looking to do that fashionable thing where they kick a sphere for points. We've got a fun one in store, folks.
On loan from the Greek gods, we have Brad Stuver guarding Austin FC's post with the kind of tenacity that's kept 10 shots from disturbing his net. And across the pitch, the Timbers' sentry James Pantemis has been less of a barrier, and more of a raging tempest, rendering 13 shots utterly futile, to keep the goalmouth cleaner than a whistle.
In the cavalry, Austin FC are riding high with Owen Wolff, taking zero shots on goal but still managing to look good with his sharp passes, while Guilherme Biro has marked his territory with 1 goal from as many shots. Adding to that we've got Brendan Hines-Ike, who seems to prefer keeping the ball grounded, with no shots taken but an impressive pass accuracy nonetheless.
Portland Timbers' response to this resourceful bunch? Antony Alves and Felipe Mora. With a combined 5 goals, these two have proven they can get the job done with style. The rest of the team aren’t too shabby either, triggering shots at the goal like they’re trying to recreate the Battle of Helms Deep, but without the ring until now.
Ah, memories. The last five meetings between these clubs had the thrill of a coin flip, with each team claiming two wins, and one draw caramelizing the story. A 1-0 result seems to be the fashion these days.
Season records? Let's take a gander. Austin FC have been the better of the two so far, with 4 wins to 3 of Portland. However, they have not been too fond of sharing points, with zero draws compared to Timbers' one.
In the recent expeditions, Austin FC seems to have found their form, doing everything right except for a tiny loss to Portland. Ah, old wounds sting the worst. And speaking of Portland, they've been enjoying a nice little unbeaten streak themselves.
Now, I'm no fortune teller, but if I had to put my money where my mic is, my gut nudges me toward Austin FC. They have been a bit more successful in recent times and seem to have a slight edge, but predicting the exact margin? Keep an oxygen tank handy, folks.
Albert’s Prediction: Austin FC by 1