The Portland Timbers have advanced to the MLS Is Back Championship Final with a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union. The Timbers took an early lead in the 13th minute when Jeremy Ebobisse headed in a Diego Valeri corner to give the Timbers a 1-0 lead. Late in the first half, Philadelphia had a chance to equal as Portland gave up their fifth penalty opportunity in six tournament games, but Sergio Santos skyed his attempt over the crossbar.
The Timbers doubled their lead in the 70th minute, again off a Valeri corner kick, when Dario Zuparic’s flicked header found Sebastián Blanco open at the post, and he headed home for the 2-0 lead.
Things got really nervous for the Timbers and their fans late, as Andrew Wooten knocked home a rebound off a saved Jamiro Monteiro free kick, and then just minutes later, a potential tying Philadelphia goal by Kacper Przybylko was ruled just offside, and the Timbers held on for the 2-1 win.
There will be a CONCACAF Champions League spot on the line when the Timbers face Orlando City on Tuesday. The Lions defeated Minnesota United 3-1 on Thursday night to earn a spot against the Timbers in the final.
MLS IS BACK TOURNAMENT MATCH RECAP | Philadelphia Union 1, Portland Timbers 2 | Timbers website
