Each Major League Soccer matchday in 2021, the KeyBank Scouting Report will give you a snapshot of the Portland Timbers’ next opponent. On Wednesday, the Portland Timbers return to Providence Park to take on the San Jose Earthquakes (7pm PT, TICKETS, FOX 12 PLUS).
Team Form
With a record of 9-12-10, the 'Quakes are on 37 point and sit at 10th place in the Western Conference. Though not yet out of contention for a spot in the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs, San Jose is hanging by a thread.
They most recently drew 1-1 with Vancouver Whitecaps FC last weekend and defeated Austin FC 4-0 a week ago but the Earthquakes are 1-3-1 in their last five matches.
The last time the Timbers saw them, Felipe Mora scored to bring Portland back from a goal down and earn a 1-1 result at Providence Park on Aug. 4. In fact, in 14 all-time regular-season matches between the two teams, Portland is undefeated at Providence Park (10-0-4).
In Attack
San Jose's attack is sparked by CD Guadalajara loanee, Javier López, more commonly known by La Chofis, who leads the team with 12 goals. The midfielder also has four assists on the year. Eighteen-year old phenom, and 2021 MLS All-Star, Cade Cowell has four goals and four assists from the midfield. His 30 appearances is tied with Chofis for second most on the team and first among field players.
Midfield Designated Player Cristian Espinoza has a team-best eight assists while also chipping in three goals.
Longtime Timbers forward Jeremy Ebobisse, traded to San Jose midseason, has been slowed by injuries but has a goal and an assist so far with the 'Quakes. All-time MLS leading goalscorer Chris Wondolowski is often used as a super-sub and has three goal on the year.
In Defense
U.S. international Jackson Yueill has played in the midfield for San Jose as well as along the backline and has two goals on the year. Homegrown defender Tommy Thompson has started the last two games for the Quakes.
Brazilian defender Nathan's 57 interceptions is fourth best in the league – earned in just 17 matches – while midfielder Eric Remedi has 49.
Homegrown goalkeeper J.T. Marcinkowski has started every match for San Jose this year, earning five clean sheets.
More Timbers News
