Round 2 moves on to Group F in the MLS is Back Tournament on Saturday night, with a reunion of old teammates in the early game followed by the first-ever El Trafico fixture played at a neutral site. Here's what to expect:
Portland Timbers vs. Houston Dynamo
8:00 PM ET – ESPN, ESPN Deportes in US; TSN in Canada
Much of the focus will be in the coaching boxes when two of the stars of the original 1996 MetroStars, new Houston Dynamo manager Tab Ramos and third-year Portland Timbers manager Giovanni Savarese, lead their teams into competition. Ramos is still looking for his first MLS coaching victory, after seeing the Dynamo give up a two-goal lead in an enthralling 3-3 draw against defending Supporters' Shield champs LAFC. Also of note, Dynamo defender Zarek Valentin could be making his first appearance against Portland, where he spent the previous four seasons. Meanwhile, the Timbers can guarantee passage from the group with a second tournament win and third consecutive overall.
LAFC vs. LA Galaxy
10:30 PM ET – ESPN, ESPN Deportes in US; TSN in Canada
El Trafico is always a big deal whether it's contested at Banc of California Stadium, Dignity Health Sports Park, or even at ESPN's Wide World of Sports. And it's a huge moment for new LA Galaxy star Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, who will get his first taste of this fierce rivalry on the heels of his first MLS goal. After a 2-1 defeat against Portland, the Galaxy could be eliminated from contention for the top two group spots with a loss and anything other than a draw in the earlier Group F match. Chicharito isn't the only offensive threat that just got off the schneid. Brian Rodriguez got his first MLS goal in LAFC's draw, and could likely get plenty more time as Bob Bradley's men try to make up for Carlos Vela's absence by committee.
