Published Apr 7, 3:44am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Apr 7, 3:44am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Apr 7, 3:54am ET
The MLS action continues to come thick and fast this weekend, as the in-form LAFC bid to maintain their unbeaten start to the new season when they travel to the Portland Timbers.
LAFC have defended excellently in the opening six fixtures in 2026, while the Timbers have failed to show their best form after failing to win in their previous five.
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|
|---|---|
| Portland | +358 |
| The Draw | +316 |
| LAFC | -145 |
It has been a challenging start to the 2026 season for the Portland Timbers, reflected after failing to win in their last five fixtures. Over that period, the Timbers have suffered four defeats, which includes a 3-2 loss against Vancouver last time out. Portland have struggled defensively so far this term, allowing seven goals in their last three.
Being back in front of their home fans should improve their chances on Saturday after scoring an average of 1.67 goals per fixture at Providence Park. Kristoffer Velde will be the team’s most important player, having scored a team-high two goals in 2026.
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It has been an excellent start to the new season for LAFC, with the franchise already sitting a point clear at the top of the Western Conference standings. Defensively, they have been incredible to this point, keeping clean sheets in all six of their fixtures, and restricting opponents to a low xGA of 1.48 per 90.
Offensively, they came alive in their latest outing against Orlando City, scoring six times from 16 efforts on goal. Denis Bouanga was the standout star, netting a stunning hat-trick inside the opening half an hour.
| TOTAL | Portland | LAFC | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 24 | 7 | 9 | 8 |
| Goals | 77 | 36 | 41 |
LAFC’s relentless start to the new MLS season is the obvious angle worth following this weekend. Their solid defensive record ensures that they are a standout selection to win to nil.
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Pick
LAFC
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