Portland and Montreal Split the Points in First Meeting Since 2023, and It's Setting Up Big Weekend Tests

The Portland Timbers and CF Montreal couldn't find a winner on Wednesday night, settling for a 2-2 draw at Saputo Stadium in what turned out to be their first matchup since October 2023. This wasn't just any midweek MLS game either. Both teams are fighting to build momentum, and neither could pull away when it mattered most.

Montreal's Attack Strikes Early, But Portland Answers Back

Daniel Rios opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a right-footed strike from the top of the box that found the top right corner. The Mexican forward, making his first MLS start for Montreal, came hot into this one after scoring the match-winner against Orlando City on Saturday. It looked like Montreal was about to run away with it.

But Kevin Kelsy had other ideas. In the 21st minute, Kelsy tapped in a Kristoffer Velde cross to tie things up at one apiece. This was Kelsy's team-leading fifth goal of the season, and he's been on fire lately with three goals in his past two matches.

Carmona's Brilliance Puts Montreal Up, Then Bassett Ties It Late

Montreal reclaimed the lead just before halftime when Wikelman Carmona took a through ball from Matty Longstaff, outran a pair of Portland defenders, and put his left-footed strike past keeper James Pantemis. That 2-1 lead looked like it might hold up.

Not so fast. Cole Bassett punished Montreal in the 77th minute when his initial strike hit the post, but he was there for the rebound and put it past an out-of-position Thomas Gillier. Final score: 2-2. Montreal keeper Pantemis made six saves in the effort, while Montreal's Gillier made one.

The result leaves Montreal at 4-7-1 with 13 points, unbeaten in four straight MLS home matches at 3-0-1. Portland sits at 4-6-2 with 14 points, but this draw is huge for them. They've now got points in consecutive matches for the first time this season, though they're still struggling on the road at 1-5-1.

What's Next

Montreal hosts the Chicago Fire on Saturday, while Portland visits Miami on Sunday. Both teams will be looking to build on what they got out of this one.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.