Timbers host Crew in Saturday's season opener

Matchday marks club's 500th MLS match, 250th at Providence Park

Feb. 21, 2026 at 4:00pm

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The Portland Timbers open their 16th Major League Soccer campaign on Saturday as they play host to the Columbus Crew at Providence Park. The season opener marks the club's 500th match in MLS, and the 250th MLS match at Providence Park. The night also features a special scarf designed by local artist TK Irving that is only available on matchday through PTFC Authentics.

Why it matters

The Timbers-Crew matchup kicks off the Timbers' 2026 season and celebrates the club's history, with the 500th MLS match and 250th match at Providence Park. The Black Excellence Night events also highlight the creativity and influence of the Black community in Portland.

The details

Saturday night is Black Excellence Night at Providence Park, featuring a lineup of standout performances. The limited-edition scarf, designed by Portland native TK Irving, reflects the creativity, influence, and excellence of the Black community and is available for purchase exclusively at PTFC Authentics locations at Providence Park.

  • The Portland Timbers open their 16th Major League Soccer campaign on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • The season opener marks the club's 500th match in MLS.
  • The match at Providence Park is the 250th MLS match at the stadium.

The players

TK Irving

A local Portland artist who designed the special Black Excellence scarf available exclusively at PTFC Authentics locations for the match.

Kristoffer Velde

A Timbers striker who guests on a new club podcast, Timbers Fan, to help preview the season.

Cole Bassett

A new Timbers midfielder who joined the club in a trade with the Colorado Rapids over the offseason and talked about his transition and goals for the season.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Timbers will kick off their 2026 MLS season on Saturday, February 21st, against the Columbus Crew at Providence Park.

The takeaway

The Timbers' season opener against the Crew marks a significant milestone for the club, celebrating their 500th MLS match and 250th match at Providence Park. The Black Excellence Night events also highlight the important contributions and influence of the Black community in Portland.