Match Summary
FC Cincinnati defeated Portland Timbers 3:2. The match was played in Major League Soccer 2025. Goals were scored by K. Denkey 10′, P. Bucha 25′, Evander 36′, K. Kelsy 38′, K. Kelsy 68′ (pen.). 3 yellow cards were shown. Portland Timbers had 58% possession while FC Cincinnati held 42%. Portland Timbers had 24 shots (5 on target) compared to 10 (5 on target) for FC Cincinnati. Expected goals: Portland Timbers 2.54 — FC Cincinnati 1.33. Portland Timbers made 4 substitutions, FC Cincinnati made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Portland Timbers and FC Cincinnati — 5 goals and 3 cards recorded during the match.
assist: P. Bucha
assist: Evander
assist: M. Miazga
assist: A. Lassiter
Penalty
Match Statistics
Portland Timbers had 58% possession against FC Cincinnati's 42%. Portland Timbers registered 24 shots (5 on target) while FC Cincinnati managed 10 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 6–3. Fouls committed: 10–12.
Lineups
Portland Timbers lined up in a 5-4-1 formation under Philip John Neville, while FC Cincinnati deployed a 3-4-1-2 under Patrick John Noonan.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Portland Timbers is 6.83, compared to 7.11 for FC Cincinnati. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Portland Timbers's highest-rated starter is D. Ayala (7.18), while FC Cincinnati's best-rated player is K. Denkey (7.11).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Portland Timbers have contributed 11 goals and 7 assists this season, led by K. Kelsy (7G). FC Cincinnati's starters account for 11 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by K. Denkey (10G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Portland Timbers deploy 5 defenders rated 6.88 on average, against FC Cincinnati's 3-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Portland Timbers field 4 midfielders averaging 6.84, versus FC Cincinnati's 4 rated 7.11. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Portland Timbers start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.72, compared to 3 for FC Cincinnati averaging 7.11. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 46% for Portland Timbers and 42% for FC Cincinnati. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Portland Timbers's starters have collected 32 yellow cards this season, compared to 5 for FC Cincinnati. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Portland Timbers's starting XI is 25.8 (youngest: K. Kelsy (21), oldest: A. Lassiter (31)), while FC Cincinnati average 23.3 (youngest: S. Jimenez (18), oldest: P. Bucha (27)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Portland Timbers's starters average 29 league appearances each, versus 11 for FC Cincinnati. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Portland Timbers have recorded 1 wins, 1 draws and 4 defeats. FC Cincinnati show 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Portland Timbers
FC Cincinnati
API data: 15 Mar 2026