Portland (+115), Bet (+245), Salt Lake (+210)

Real Salt Lake was the last team to clinch a playoff spot, earning their way into the dance on Decision Day with a 2-2 tie against St. Louis.

Star Diego Luna started 27 games, scored nine goals and six assists. He does everything well and more importantly, pays attention to detail. He is a technician on the pitch, is a creative dribbler, and has impeccable passing. His improving defense will only help him in the long run but could be beneficial in Wednesday’s showdown.

Whereas most would look at Salt Lake as an underdog, they combat a Portland team that lost nine of their last 10, limped into the playoffs, and will be playing with desperation to stop the skid.

Timbers’ midfielder and winger David DeCosta scored just four goals in 2025 and six assists in 33 games. He will need to enhance his level of play if he and the rest of the Portland squad is to outlast Salt Lake and advance to the first round.

There is something to be said of momentum and even more of downward momentum. It was a good season for Portland and the Timbers are a competitive team, but it is difficult to imagine them flipping a switch and suddenly solving their ailments.

Prediction: Salt Lake advances

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