For the first time in MLS history, there will be a match played on Thanksgiving Day as the Colorado Rapids host the Portland Timbers at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Portland ousted Minnesota United in a 3-1 win on Sunday night to advance to the conference semifinals and play first-seed Colorado.
The season series between these two teams favored the Rapids, with a dramatic 2-2 draw in Portland in September and the Rapids beating Portland 2-0 in October — a win that clinched them a playoff spot.
The 2-2 draw in September was one of the more frustrating matches of the season for the Rapids, as they were up a man for the whole second half after a Bill Tuiloma red card, yet didn’t break a 1-1 score until a ridiculous shot by Michael Barrios from the touchline somehow looped over Timbers goalkeeper Steve Clark in the 87th minute.