The Portland Timbers have their confidence back after a thrilling 2-2 draw against San Diego FC in Game 2 of their Round One Best-of-3 Series in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. Timbers rookie striker Gage Guerra scored a last-second equalizer, forcing a penalty shootout that Portland won 3-2. The eighth-seeded Timbers, who fell 2-1 in Game 1, had the backing of a frenzied Providence Park crowd. They fed off the energy early, with DP winger Kristoffer Velde scoring in the 18th minute. San Diego responded with the attacking talent that helped them earn the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Star winger Chucky Lozano, who had missed the previous two matches for disciplinary reasons, entered the game as a substitute and promptly scored a go-ahead goal. The Timbers needed an equalizer to keep their season alive, and did not lack for chances as they peppered Pablo Sisniega’s goal. Guerra, the 69th overall pick of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft out of Louisville, awaited his opportunity. Guerra entered in the 86th minute and scored the equalizer in stoppage time, sending the crowd into hysterics. The penalty shootout was a back-and-forth affair, with the two teams combining to miss five attempts. Antony scored the decisive PK, securing a Game 3 matchup at Snapdragon Stadium. Portland head coach Phil Neville credited the scene at Providence Park, calling it an “iconic atmosphere,” and staked his claim that the Portland-San Diego matchup is the best of Round One. The Timbers seem to think they can win the series, despite being underdogs against a well-rounded and star-studded San Diego side. Guerra put it simply: “We can do it.” The team will head to San Diego for Game 3 on November 9, looking to pull off the upset. The energy at Providence Park will be missed, but the Timbers are confident they can carry their momentum into the next game. With their season on the line, the Portland Timbers are ready to give it their all in Game 3.