Portland Timbers desperately need points on Sunday, Oct 25 at 3:30 AM in the MLS. With the team sitting in the bottom three, this is quickly becoming a must-win situation.

Portland Timbers come into this fixture struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5). Charlotte, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form (2W 1D 2L) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Portland Timbers head into this on the back of a defeat, while Charlotte arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — Portland Timbers and Charlotte have split their 1 meetings almost evenly (0W–0D–1W). Their last encounter ended in Portland Timbers won 0–2.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Portland Timbers a slight edge, but Charlotte are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.