The Vancouver Whitecaps return to BC Place for a midweek derby match against Cascadian rivals, the Portland Timbers. They are still riding high off a record 7-0 win for Müller’s birthday bash, clinching a spot in the Canadian Championship Final, and following that with a comfortable road victory in Kansas. Meanwhile, Manchester United “Class of ‘96” legend Phil Neville’s Timbers are arriving with a tough record of two draws and three losses in their last five away games.

While it looks like talisman Ryan Gauld is inching closer to returning, he’ll join the host of players out of the lineup for Vancouver in this match. Thankfully, Kenji Cabrera introduced himself to MLS fans by scoring his first goal in his first start for Vancouver against Sporting KC. He proved that the Whitecaps can rest players like Müller and Brian White and still be competitive, as thoughts of winning it all ripple throughout the city.

Losing both Ocampo and Cubas to suspension from yellow card accumulation is a harsh blow to already weakened depth. Without Ocampo, Cubas, Blackmon, Veselinović, Adekugbe, or new defensive signings Joedrick Pupe and Sebastian Schonlau, Vancouver is facing the worst squad crisis in the league. Portland will be salivating at the chance to take advantage of Jesper Sørensen’s dilemma, but that has not worked for many thus far.

Portland is not used to being a substantial underdog in this rivalry and will be keen to end its poor run against Vancouver. It is a monumental task, but the last time these two sides met, Portland’s new talisman, David Da Costa, had just arrived. Da Costa has great skill on the ball and delivers set pieces that can wreak havoc if given the chance. Once he gets the ball, he is going to cause problems, as he is undoubtedly one of the most skillful dribblers in MLS. However, the question remains: will Portland manage to get him the ball enough?

Portland’s defense has been questionable all season, and the fullbacks are likely to struggle with the pace of in-form wingers Sabbi, Nelson, and Ahmed. Beating Vancouver’s press to find Antony and Da Costa on the counter will be critical and not easy. However, the absence of Cubas, who is crucial to Vancouver regaining possession in the opposition’s end, could give Portland slightly more time and space to pick out dangerous passes in behind.

It is hard to believe Vancouver has improved since the 4-1 thrashing of Portland that started this historic season. Obviously, everyone would prefer to be at full strength all the time, but Vancouver has been flexing its squad depth. Players like Halbouni, Tate Johnson, and Laborda have been holding the fort just fine, and youngsters Rayan Elloumi and Kenji Cabrera are only just getting started.

This match presents an opportunity for Portland to pick up vital points to stay in a playoff spot, while it represents a major hurdle in Vancouver’s quest for the Supporters’ Shield. Cascadian derbies rarely disappoint, and this one is critical to both teams’ seasons. Games like this can make or break championships.