PORTLAND, OR – JUNE 09: MLS match ends on a 0-0 tie between the Portland Timbers and the Sporting Kansas City at Providence Park, Portland, OR (photo by Diego G Diaz/ProstAmerika).
Among one of strategic of positons in any eleven is its midfield. In the upcoming finals between the Portland Timbers and Sporting Kansas City, this position can be the game changer. As stated in a post about the defense importance. In the upcoming matchup between Portland and SKC, the squad that has the upper hand in the midfield will be the overall victor.
However, in this, series both sides are very even call it offensively or defensively both of these squads might is important in holding their ground. In this series, a duel of strategies between Peter Vermes and Giovanni Savarese will be the highlight of this contest in the Western conference.
For the Midwest squad manager Peter Vermes and his trademark 4-3-3 formation, that has been the secret of his squad success. Contrary to Giovanni Savarese by using a number of formations but in the end one formation that worked wonders. By using, an all familiar 4-2-3-1 used in the past by many of these squad veterans and in this postseason has become the difference maker.
With difference makers indeed, as SKC has a line of three with Illie Sanchez, Felipe Gutierrez and Roger Espinoza that are the core of their midfield. In offense of defense these threesome can step their game and make it impossible to any opposing team. In spite of their might and creativity, the aid of Juhnny Russell and Daniel Salloi can tip the scales in their favor. In the case of Portland with its dynamic duo of Diego Chara and David Guzman, defensibly these two are a brick wall. As well, these can make turn things around on offense.
In offense for Portland Sebastian Blanco and Diego Valeri considered as the Timbers top playmakers. I do add to the Portland offensive charge the likes of Andy Polo, who can shake off any defense.
Here is an exposition of both squad’s midfields and who holds the upper hand.
PORTLAND, OR – JUNE 09: MLS match ends on a 0-0 tie between the Portland Timbers and the Sporting Kansas City at Providence Park, Portland, OR (photo by Diego G Diaz/ProstAmerika).
Portland Timbers
Diego Chara and David Guzman
Diego Valeri, Sebastian Blanco, Andy Polo
Sporting Kansas City
Illie Sanchez, Felipe Gutierrez, Roger Espinoza
Diego Chara and David Guzman vs Illie Sanchez, Felipe Gutierrez, Roger Espinoza
Even but Portland edges SKC
Diego Valeri, Sebastian Blanco, Andy Polo vs Illie Sanchez, Felipe Gutierrez, Roger Espinoza
Advantage Portland
PORTLAND, OR – JUNE 09: MLS match ends on a 0-0 tie between the Portland Timbers and the Sporting Kansas City at Providence Park, Portland, OR (photo by Diego G Diaz/ProstAmerika).
Sporting Kansas City
Portland
