This will surely be a thrilling contest between the Portland Timbers and the Colorado Rapids. The goalkeepers are evenly matched, with Colorado Rapids' Nicholas Defreitas-Hansen and Zack Steffen backing up the defense well. Equally, the Portland Timbers aren't to be underestimated with James Pantemis and Maxime Crépeau guarding their net.
As we size up the top players, Colorado Rapids have Rafael Navarro and Ian Murphy leading the pack with their impressive pass percentages, but they're without goals this season which might hurt their chances. On the other hand, the Timbers bring forward Santiago Moreno, who's been solid with 3 goals this season and an 80% accurate pass rate. David Pereira da Costa has also been instrumental for the Timbers.
Look back at the season records, and you won't find much daylight between these two teams. However, a past showdown leans towards the Timbers. While the Rapids have recently had a better outing against Saint Louis City SC and Real Salt Lake, their previous losses might leave scars. The Timbers, on the other hand, have had a mixed bag of recent results, but their past performances against the Rapids could give them the boost they need.
This might sound like your old prom night: the potential for thrill and regret, depending on how you see it. But based on what we've discussed and my dry, sixth sense humor lining up nicely with my predicting brain, let’s make this call…
Albert’s Prediction: Portland Timbers by 1