1. Facing the Champs
On Sunday, the Earthquakes face the defending MLS Cup champion Portland Timbers for the first time in 2016. Since 2012, the Quakes have gone 5-3-2 against the reigning champions in the regular season, including a 2-1-0 record last season against LA.
2. Lineup Changes
Although head coach Dominic Kinnear is a proponent of limiting change following a victory, the Quakes starting XI might still see some shakeups on Sunday. Designated Player
Matias Perez Garcia
returns from a one-match ban stemming from the final game of last season. The Argentinian midfielder tallied a team-high seven assists in 2015 and could either make his way back into the starting lineup or provide a dangerous weapon off the bench. Left back
Shaun Francis
, who exited the win against Colorado at halftime with a right quad strain, may also not be available for San Jose, opening the door for 2016 SuperDraft selection
Kip Colvey
to make his first career MLS start.
3. More from Wondo?
Forward Chris Wondolowski has scored six goals against the Portland Timbers in his career, including his MLS record-tying 27th goal back in 2012, and three in his last three games. His six scores are tied for the second most against the Timbers all-time, trailing only Robbie Keane’s eight.
