Much as it was the last time LAFC returned to MLS action, they get set to take on a team that is on the compete opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to form. The difference is, unlike Orlando, Portland Timbers, even at their worst, tend to play Los Angeles physical, pushing them to the absolute limit. In their 22 meetings so far, just once has the winning side done so by more than two goals, a 4-1 win by the fabled 2019 version of LAFC. Which might bold well for this afternoon because so far, the 2026 version of the black and gold has looked just as potent in attack as that record-breaking side, and a whole lot more stout defensively.
Matchday: #PORvLAFC
⏰ 1:45 PM PST
🖥️ @AppleTV
🎧 @ESPNLosAngeles & K-Radio 1230
🇰🇷 Spotv & Coupang Play pic.twitter.com/ECDun4w7AC— LAFC (@LAFC) April 11, 2026
The Timbers have not had a very fun start to their 2026 campaign. Through six matches they have won just once, losing four of their last five, with one draw. Portland have conceded 15 goals this season, tied for second most in the MLS. The one positive for Portland coming into this match, is that the lone win did come at home, where they welcome the best team in the MLS this afternoon. The players to watch for Timbers are forwards Kristoffer Velde and Antony, who have been the bulk of the Portland attack so far this season.
Another weekend, another match against a team that is leaking goals for LAFC. Nothing is ever a given in professional sports, but the form couldn’t be better for Los Angeles right. Fresh off their impressive Concacaf Champions Cup win over Cruz Azul at home in there first leg, they return to MLS action where they still, have yet to concede a goal let alone lose a match. This is the type of match though that will test their focus. It will be the first early afternoon match of the season, against a team that historically has played them really close and plays them really physical. Expect the home side to try and muck up the match and see if LAFC can handle the grind it might take to come out of this one with a win.
How To Watch
It’s an early start for this Western Conference clash, as kickoff is set for 1:45pm PST from Providence Park in Portland, Oregon. The match will be broadcast live and can be watched on AppleTV. The match will also be streamed on Coupang Play (Korea) as well as SpoTV (Korea). The match will also be available on radio broadcast on 710 AM Los Angeles, 980 AM La Mera Mera for Spanish broadcasting, and KYPA 1230 AM for Korean broadcasting.
Thoughts on the match against Portland? Let us know in the comments below!