Temperatures in Portland are forecast to be in the 90s. The combination of direct sunlight, FieldTurf and stadium structure resulted in concern for player safety. MLS, ESPN, the Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders agreed to move the match to 7:30 PM Pacific. It will now be on ESPN2 rather than ESPN. Pregame coverage will start at 7 PM.
There may still be water breaks as the temperatures will still be quite high. But Providence Park’s playing surface should cool off when it is not in the sun.
Direct sun creates a layer directly above artificial turf that's 30-45 degrees higher than air temps.