Portland travels to Kansas City on Tuesday night as they continue their run through the U.S. Open Cup (5:30pm PT, Timbers.com). After handily beating Orlando City U-23s of the USL PDL 3-0 in the fourth round last week, the Timbers nowbattle an MLS side in the fifth round of the tourney. Sporting Kansas City got to this point after defeating the NASL's Minnesota United FC 2-0 at home a week ago. Tonight's game will be the second time these two teams meet this week, as they travel back to Portland for an MLS game on Friday. Let's take a look at five numbers to look at for Tuesday's game.
21 In their first U.S. Open Cup match of the year, the Timbers were ready to go. Against Orlando City U-23, Portland took 21 shots as they cruised to a victory, 3-0, over their opponents at Providence Park.
Seven Portland is first in MLS in goals scored outside the box. With their recent push in the standings, the Timbers are now at sixth in the Western Conference, just one point behind the Vancouver Whitecaps for the fifth and final spot in the playoffs.
3-1-1Away from Providence Park, the Timbers have had a strong road showing going 3-1-1 over their past five MLS games away. Sporting Kansas City has been efficient at home this season, racking up a record of 2-1-2 at Sporting Park in their last five league games plus beat Minnesota at home in USOC play.
Two While playing against Portland, Kansas City will be without two of their main players. As the 2014 FIFA World Cup continues in Brazil, midfielder Graham Zusi and defender Matt Besler will be away from Kansas City as they play for the U.S. Men's National Team.
2 + 3 Portland has become a league leader in several offensive categories in MLS. Portland is tied for second in goals (28) shots on goal (82) and fouls suffered (258). Meanwhile, they are tied for third overall in assists with 21.
