FC Dallas vs. Portland Timbers – MLS, May 1, 2021

Having taken just one point from a possible six this season, it’s safe to say that FC Dallas is in serious need of some inspiration. Unfortunately, Portland visits Toyota Stadium on Saturday, May 1.

Not only are the Timbers one of the strongest teams in the Western Conference, but they also head into Saturday’s clash on the back of an impressive draw with Club America in the CONCACAF Champions League quarter-finals.

After looking at the odds and assessing the teams, I will share my FC Dallas vs. Portland Timbers prediction and pick.

I’m not going to lie to you; I was surprised when I first saw the odds for this matchup.

Of course, the Texans have the home-field advantage on Saturday. But it feels as though Portland (3.40) heads into Week 3 in a far better position than Dallas (2.05).

There is definitely value in the odds for the draw, and the away win here.

Luchi Gonzalez’s men kicked off their 2021 MLS campaign with a goalless draw against the Rapids. Despite enjoying more of the ball and creating plenty of goalscoring opportunities, Dallas was ultimately frustrated by Colorado.

The Toros would have been hoping to bounce back and lay down a marker against San Jose last weekend. But unfortunately, that didn’t happen.

After struggling to get a foothold in the game, Gonzalez’s men found themselves 3-0 down inside 60 minutes. Though the damage had already been done, Ricardo Pepi scored a late consolation goal.

Dallas finished the previous campaign with the second-best defensive record in the Western Conference. However, the team’s backline was all over the place against the Quakes.

Given that Portland scored more goals than any other side in the West last season, the Texans have every reason to be fearful.

?⚽️ Goal @TimbersFC!

Mora scores from the penalty spot in the last minute of the game. | #SCCL21 pic.twitter.com/JcQ6HeQDcm

— Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League (@TheChampions) April 29, 2021

The Timbers suffered a rare Cascadia Cup defeat to the Whitecaps on the opening weekend of the MLS season, but they have since secured a couple of eye-catching results.

Giovanni Savarese’s men racked up 23 shots en route to beating Houston 2-1 last weekend, with goals from Dairon Asprilla and Cristhian Paredes sealing the deal.

Portland appeared to be heading for defeat against Club America in the CONCACAF Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday. However, a last-gasp Felipe Mora penalty earned the Oregon outfit a draw against the Mexican giant – setting up a tasty second leg.

In previous years, the Timbers have struggled to compete with Mexico’s top sides. Still, they held their own against Club America in midweek.

Savarese’s men have only lost one of their last six MLS games against Dallas, picking up two wins and three draws along the way. They will be confident of enhancing that record this weekend, especially as Dallas is struggling.

The betting sites offer a hugely attractive price for the Portland win – and I can’t turn it down!

Having sealed a late draw against Club America, the Timbers will be brimming with belief at the moment. By contrast, Dallas has made a poor start to the season and will be low on confidence as we approach Week 3.

I expect the Texans to improve as the campaign unfolds, but it feels like all the momentum is with Portland right now.