Analysis The numbers behind the result
Portland's clinical finishing dismantles Seattle despite tight possession battle
The 5-1 scoreline accurately reflects Portland's dominance in chance quality, with their 2.24 xG dwarfing Seattle's meager 0.55 despite only a 52%-48% possession edge. The Timbers converted half of their 10 shots on target while Seattle managed just one goal from six, with Kelsy's brace (19', 63') and Bassett's strike (56') punctuating a ruthless attacking display.
Portland's numerical advantage in box shots (14 vs 9) and corners (8 vs 2) highlighted their superior penetration, with Da Costa registering two assists. Seattle's defensive struggles were compounded by yellow cards to Ragen (41') and Rothrock (49'), though late substitute Dotson (87') salvaged minimal pride. The decisive stat? Portland's 20 total shots to Seattle's 12 - a volume that translated directly into their overwhelming xG superiority.