MLS is Back Tournament: Portland Timbers Claim Victory
The MLS is Back Tournament served as a pivotal return to action for Major League Soccer, bringing together 24 teams from the United States and Canada. Held from July 8 to August 11, 2020, the competition was hosted entirely at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World, creating a centralized hub for elite professional soccer.
The tournament featured a rigorous structure designed to test team endurance and tactical flexibility, beginning with a group stage and culminating in a high-stakes knockout bracket. The event was characterized by high-scoring matches and standout individual performances, ultimately crowning the Portland Timbers as the champions.
Key Facts
- Champions: Portland Timbers
- Runner-up: Orlando City SC
- Venue: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Florida
- Total Matches: 51
- Total Goals: 146 (Average of 2.86 per match)
- Top Scorer: Diego Rossi (7 goals)
- Best Player: Sebastián Blanco
Tournament Format and Structure
The competition began with 24 teams divided into six groups (Groups A through F). The group stage utilized a specific ranking system to determine who advanced to the knockout rounds. Teams were ranked based on total points, followed by the number of wins, goal difference, and goals scored. In the event of a tie, a disciplinary points system was used, where fouls and cards were assigned specific point values (e.g., 3 points for a yellow card and 7 points for a red card).
The Group Stage
The group stage saw a mix of dominant performances and tight contests. Notably, Columbus Crew SC dominated Group E with a perfect record and a +7 goal difference. In Group F, the Portland Timbers and Los Angeles FC emerged as strong contenders, setting the stage for their later success in the tournament.
The Knockout Stage
Following the group phase, the tournament transitioned into a single-elimination format. This stage included the Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and the Final. The knockout rounds were marked by intense drama, including several matches decided by penalty shootouts, such as the Quarter-final clash between Orlando City SC and Los Angeles FC.
The Road to the Final
The Portland Timbers' journey to the title was defined by consistency and clinical finishing. After navigating the group stage, they overcame FC Cincinnati in the Round of 16 via penalties, defeated New York City FC 3–1 in the Quarter-finals, and beat the Philadelphia Union 2–1 in the Semi-finals.
The final match took place on August 11, 2020, pitting the Portland Timbers against Orlando City SC. Portland secured the championship with a 2–1 victory, with goals from Larrys Mabiala and Župarić ensuring their place as the tournament winners.
Tournament Summary
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dates | July 8 – August 11, 2020 |
| Participating Teams | 24 |
| Top Goal Scorer | Diego Rossi (7 goals) |
| Best Player Award | Sebastián Blanco |
| Final Score | Portland Timbers 2–1 Orlando City SC |
Individual Honors and Awards
Beyond the team trophy, several players were recognized for their exceptional contributions. Diego Rossi of Los Angeles FC led the scoring charts with 7 goals, while Sebastián Blanco of the Portland Timbers was named the tournament's best player and led in assists with 5.
The MLS is Back Tournament Best XI highlighted the top performers across all positions, featuring goalkeeper Andre Blake and defenders like João Moutinho and Larrys Mabiala, reflecting the defensive strength required to survive the knockout stages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the MLS is Back Tournament?
The Portland Timbers won the tournament, defeating Orlando City SC 2–1 in the final match on August 11, 2020.
Where was the tournament held?
The entire tournament took place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World in the United States.
Who was the top goal scorer of the competition?
Diego Rossi of Los Angeles FC was the top scorer, netting a total of 7 goals.
How were teams ranked during the group stage?
Teams were ranked primarily by points, then by number of wins, goal difference, and goals scored. If a tie persisted, a disciplinary points system was applied.
Who was named the best player of the tournament?
Sebastián Blanco of the Portland Timbers received the award for the best player.