Portland Timbers’ 2015 MLS Cup Anniversary Celebration Marred by Loss to Real Salt Lake
The Portland Timbers’ celebration of their historic 2015 MLS Cup victory was meant to be a night of pride and nostalgia. Instead, it turned bittersweet as the team suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Real Salt Lake (RSL) at Providence Park on July 16, 2025.
This marked the Timbers’ first home loss since their season opener in February and their first scoreless home match of the year, putting a damper on what was intended to be a joyous night commemorating the franchise’s most iconic moment.
RSL Ends Skid, Timbers Slump Continues
Diogo Goncalves’ 83rd-minute strike sealed the win for Real Salt Lake (8-10-4, 28 points), snapping a five-match winless streak against Portland. The Timbers (9-7-6, 33 points), meanwhile, have now lost three of their last four matches, slipping to sixth in the Western Conference standings.
Head coach Phil Neville acknowledged the recent downturn:
“We can’t shy away from the fact that we’re going through a dip… the ball doesn’t roll for us or the decisions aren’t going for us.”
Halftime Ceremony Celebrates Legendary 2015 Team
Despite the disappointing result, the night featured an emotional halftime tribute to the 2015 Portland Timbers—the only squad in club history to win an MLS Cup. Ten former players were honored, including MLS Cup heroes Diego Valeri, Rodney Wallace, and captain Jack Jewsbury. Diego Chara, the lone active member from that title-winning team, was also recognized.
“I can’t believe it’s already been 10 years,” Jewsbury said. “You leave with special friendships and bonds.”
Former goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey, defender Nat Borchers, and others received raucous ovations as they lifted the MLS Cup trophy one more time in front of the Timbers Army.
“It was heavier than I remember, but it felt great,” Borchers joked. “To do it all again is special.”
Missed Chances and Controversial Calls
On the field, Portland struggled to find rhythm in the absence of injured star David Da Costa. Santiago Moreno and Kevin Kelsy had promising moments, including a near-goal in the 64th minute and a contested penalty appeal in the 59th minute. Ariel Lassiter appeared to be shoved in the box, but referee Alexis Da Silva waved off the Timbers’ claims, much to the home crowd’s frustration.
RSL’s goal came after a defensive lapse that allowed Goncalves a clean look at goal. Although Diego Luna found the net in the 76th minute, it was ruled offside, keeping the match close until the final whistle.
Looking Ahead: Focus on Minnesota and Club’s 50th Anniversary
Despite the loss, the Timbers remain in the playoff hunt and will have a chance to rebound Saturday against Minnesota United, where they will celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary with additional festivities.
“We were on a hell of a run and now let’s go on another 10-game unbeaten run,” Neville said. “It’s not always going to be beautiful… but it’s my job to get us ready.”
Final Thoughts
The Portland Timbers’ 2015 MLS Cup anniversary served as a poignant reminder of the club’s proudest moment, even as current struggles cast a shadow. While the night may have ended in frustration, the legacy of that championship team continues to inspire both fans and players as Portland eyes another postseason push.
