Portland Timbers to open 2024 season against Colorado Rapids
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Portland Timbers soccer players training ahead of this Saturday's MLS season opener. Photo: Courtesy of Portland Timbers/Craig Mitchelldyer
The Portland Timbers failed to make the playoffs the last two seasons and have ongoing problems between the team's owner and its fans. But a new coach and several new players going into Saturday's season opener could mean a fresh start for the Major League Soccer franchise.
Why it matters: The Timbers used to regularly sell out its 25,000-seat stadium, but many fans let their season tickets lapse in protest over the behind-the-scenes scandals. Now empty seats are common.
State of play: New coach Phil Neville met with media members after training on Tuesday and was frank about the Timbers' current shortcomings, but provided few specifics.
- The club is teasing that it will acquire one or two designated players within weeks.
- "We still need that difference maker … with the ability to carry the team, the organization and the fan base on their shoulders to success," Neville said.
What he's saying: "I want us to dominate possession, I want us to be an exciting team to watch," Neville said.
The details: Neville will keep the British tradition of naming the team's roster hours, not days, before the game, to keep the players focused and competitive.
- "If you're all fit, you're all in competition to play," Neville said.
Key signings this season include Kamal Miller in central defense and veteran Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau.
Longtime fan and Timbers Army member Fernando "Nando" Machicado told Axios he expects the Timbers to make the playoffs.
- "It's got to be a successful season for Phil to be valued by the fans," he said.
The mood in the Timbers Army is still positive toward the players, "but we're wary about Neville's performance," Machicado said.
- Dedicated fans have been painting the opening day banner or "tifo" for at least three weeks.
What we're watching: The Timbers could be without four Canadian national team players for a month during the Copa America this summer.
One fun thing: The club is opening a standing-room-only section in Providence Park.
- The 700-capacity section will be at the Multnomah Athletic Club end of the stadium and have a "pub beer patio" and the "world's smallest dive bar."
What's next: Kickoff against the Colorado Rapids is 7:30pm Saturday at Providence Park.