Cascadia Derby Head-to-Head | Seattle Sounders vs Portland Timbers History and Stats

The totals suggest a narrow historic lead for Seattle, built
largely during periods of sustained league stability and playoff success.
Portland’s strongest changes came during the MLS era of the mid-2010s, especially
around their 2015 championship season and deep playoff runs, while Seattle’s
Consistency over several eras has slightly maintained the overall balance
your favor ((ca.wikipedia.org)(

Recent head-to-head matches (last 10 meetings)

The most recent meetings underscore just how tight the Cascadia Derby is
remains in the modern era of MLS. Ties, one-goal margins and frequent delays
Dramas are common, with the home advantage often softened by the hostile away side
atmospheres

These results show a strong tilt of the site, with Providence Park often
difficult result for Seattle, while Seattle’s home wins are usually close and
tactic Goals often come from transitions or set pieces rather than
Sustained dominance and disciplinary flashpoints remain a recurring feature
of the atmosphere of the derby. ((footystats.org)(

Key players and rivalries by era

NASL and USL Foundations (1970s-2000s)

In the first decades, figures such as Peter Withe and Alan Hinton
for Seattle, and Clive Charles and Jimmy Conway for Portland, helped
set the physical and emotional tone of the derby. The parties of this time were
direct and confrontational, with centre-forwards taking on injured centre-backs
and captains set the pace through sheer presence rather than tactics
nuance

First MLS era (2011-2014)

The transition to MLS elevated the rivalry to a national level. Seattle
he leaned on leaders like Osvaldo
AlonsoBrad Evans and Mauro Rosales, while Portland countered
with Diego
ValeryWill Johnson and Darlington Nagbe. Alonso against Valeri
it became a definitive duel in the middle of the field, contrasting with the aggressiveness of the ball
creative control

Modern MLS Peak (2015-2020)

This period provided some of the most dramatic moments of the derby.
Clint Dempsey of Seattle, Nicholas
Lodeiroi Stephen
frei clashed with the Portland stalwarts Diego
Chara, Sebastian
whiteand Liam Ridgewell. Extensive battles, especially Blanco
against disciplined laterals, and leadership confrontations between Lodeiro and
Chará, often dictated party flow.

Current era (2021-present)

The last few seasons have seen it Jordan
Morris, Christian
Rolandi cry out
Gómez Andrade take responsibility for Seattle, while Portland does
trusted Evander, dairon
Aspiraand David Ayala. The rivalry is now mixed athletic
pressing with tactical structure, with confrontations of extremes against laterals again
central to momentum changes.

The range of players highlights how the derby has evolved
physical battles to sophisticated tactical competitions, while retaining
their emotional edge across generations.

Detailed H2H analysis

Head-to-head patterns show that momentum in the Cascadia Derby
it often runs in cycles linked to staff continuity. Seattle’s historical advantage
it derives from long periods of core stability, especially in midfield and goal.
Portland’s strongest responses have come when their attacking midfielders
dictate the pace and get Seattle’s defensive block out of shape. Playoff
meetings have amplified these tendencies, with tactical caution often giving way
in the late explosive phases.

Key statistics and performance data

Statistical trends from recent MLS seasons underscore why
The Cascadia Derby continues to be unpredictable.

• The high draw frequency reflects the even field means.
• Home advantage is reduced compared to the league
  stockings
• The goals usually come after the 60th minute as intensity
  go up
• Set plays contribute disproportionately to scoring swings.
• Disciplinary records are consistently above MLS
  rules

Memorable matches and iconic moments

Several matches have become touchstones in the Cascadia Derby
folklore

• April 5, 2014: 4–4 draw at Portland that defined the derby
  chaos
• November 2013: Playoff meetings that changed momentum
  dramatically
• June 2015: High-level Open Cup clash with duration
  repercussions
• August 2018: Road wins reshaping the playoff
  racing
• August 2021: One-sided marker highlighting the transition
  to play
• October 5, 2025 – Tight Seattle home win reinforcement
  margins

Evolution of the rivalry

The Cascadia Derby has matured alongside MLS itself, going from
regional hostility into a nationally recognized rivalry with tactical depth.
While the culture and identity of the fans remain constant, football
the expression has evolved, reflecting the growth of the league, international recruitment,
and change coaching philosophies. Seattle and Portland continue to serve as a
benchmarks for the intensity of rivalry in American football, ensuring that each
the new chapter draws on a rich and fiercely contested past.

Frequently asked questions

When was the first Cascadia Derby
played?

The rivalry began in 1975 during the NASL era.

Who leads the head to head of all time
registration?

Seattle
ringers maintain a small lead in total wins.

The Cascadia Cup is part of everything
meeting?

No, it is awarded based on specific league matches each
season

Which era was the most
competitive?

The MLS period of the mid-2010s produced the tightest balance sheet and most
drama

Playoff games count toward a head-to-head
totals?

Yes, competitive playoff games are included in the story
records

Why is the rivalry considered unique a
MLS?

Its longevity across leagues and intense support culture marked it
aside

Cascadia Derby Head-to-Head | Seattle Sounders vs Portland Timbers History and statistics