Portland Timbers (2-4-5) vs. Seattle Sounders FC (2-4-5)
Portland Timbers vs. Seattle Sounders FC 5/12/24 – As the MLS season progresses, a compelling matchup is on the horizon with the Portland Timbers hosting the Seattle Sounders FC at Providence Park this Sunday. Both teams share identical records (2-4-5), signaling a tightly contested battle as they strive to climb the standings. This game not only offers a classic rivalry but also a plethora of no-cost MLS choices for betting enthusiasts.
The Portland Timbers, however, lacked consistency and only briefly glimpsed their ever-changing offensive genius primarily through their incredible midfield playmaker, Evander, and forwards Felipe Mora and Santiago Moreno. Evander, who scored 4 goals and 3 assists, his midfield play has been a considerable danger as he has the skill to break the lines and create chances in tight spaces. Mora and Moreno have got the same number of goals in total with 7 goals between them. Due to the Sounders’ defense that has shown some weakness mainly on the road where in the last 5 games they have failed to win against the spread, this attacking trio will be a key element in breaking this trend.
In the same way, the attack of Seattle Sounders has been built around the quality of Raúl Ruidíaz who scored 6 goals from 44 shots. Jordan Morris and Danilo Musovski, who could be a bit unreliable sometimes, offer this support by patching the defense and creating opportunities. The defense of the Timbers, which has been letting the majority of their recent opponents score, is going to have to be extra vigilant against Ruidiaz’ shooting.
Portland Timbers vs. Seattle Sounders FC 5/12/24 Game Info
When: | Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 4:45 PM ET |
Where: | Providence Park |
TV: | FOX |
Stream: | – |
Maxime Crépeau GK vs. Stefan Frei GK
Goalkeeper of Portland Maxime Crépeau has passed the difficult season, where he made 29 saves and conceded 16 goals, thus he’s challenged often but is always consistent. His display will be worth as much as he is attending to the unrelenting Seattle’s forwards, specifically, Raúl Ruidíaz, who has the ability to make accurate goals in front of the goal.
Contrary to this, Stefan Frei for Seattle, with 3 clean sheets from fewer starts, is evidently a more resolute defense, as he can keep his composure and withstand the pressure of the oppositions. Reliability of his involvement shall immediately gain him the game which is anticipated to be a close challenge. In this duel of the goalkeepers who stood out in different ways, Crépeau, who was busier but nonetheless valiant here, could very well become the turning point of this intraregional show that will play out soon.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: Portland Timbers +155, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Timbers at home, despite both teams being closely matched in the standings and form. The under 2.5 goals could be a tempting bet considering both teams’ recent struggles to consistently score and win games.
Portland Timbers Betting Trends
The Timbers, in their last five outings, have not picked a win which might suggest that they are finding it hard to end the matches in favor of themselves. Despite that, their home stands prove to be a smarter wager against the spread since they have had overs the total goals line in four out of their last five home matches, indicating an incline towards the higher-scoring games at the Providence Park.
Seattle Sounders FC Betting Trends
Similarly, it has been difficult for the Sounders to garner a win recently with just one in their last five appearances as they generally don’t help the spread whether at home or on a trip. They have not scored as much consistently too as their total points going OVER in their last 5 games just once.
Portland Timbers vs. Seattle Sounders FC 5/12/24 Betting Picks
Given the current form and stats,we lean towards a narrow victory for Portland. Their home advantage and slightly more effective offense, coupled with Seattle’s defensive struggles, should tip the balance. However, bettors should consider the under on total goals, given the tendencies of both teams towards lower-scoring games.
In conclusion, Portland seems the safer bet here, particularly with the spread. Look out for prop bets involving Evander or Ruidíaz as potential goal scorers in what should be a tight contest. Keep an eye on the evolving odds for potential value in this matchup of evenly matched teams, making it a worthy addition to your premium top picks.
Free Pick and Prediction: Portland Timbers 1, Seattle Sounders FC 0.