MLS semifinals set as Portland grabs last spot with win over NYCFC
The last two spots in the semifinals of the MLS is Back Tournament were filled on Saturday when the Portland Timbers booked their ticket to the penultimate round with a 3-1 win over New York City FC.
The Semifinals are SET!
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 2, 2020
Who's winning it all? 🏆 pic.twitter.com/kTghVZnIeb
Portland fell behind in the first half courtesy of Jesus Medina's penalty, but Sebastian Blanco's curling strike equalized for the Timbers just before halftime.
This. Angle. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ucbD1hDHAK
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 2, 2020
Substitute Diego Valeri ended up with the winning goal, but the highlight of the night came in the 76th minute when Andy Polo unleashed a screamer into the top corner to give the Timbers an insurmountable lead.
The Timbers will take on the Philadelphia Union on Aug. 5 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
Minnesota United beat the San Jose Earthquakes earlier Saturday to progress to the next round. The Loons will meet Orlando City in the semifinals on Aug. 6.