PTFC News Roundup: Santi Moreno's Status; Evander and Marta; Alexa Spaanstra Extension; Sincy + Thorns Advance
Santi Moreno is a “major doubt” picking up an injury in the FC Dallas match. Alexa Spaanstra signs an extension and scores her first goal with the team.
Portland Timbers broadcaster extraordinaire and reporter Adam Susman spoke with head coach Phil Neville at training on Tuesday, and it doesn’t look good for Santi Moreno.
Santi Moreno’s availability moving forward looks very questionable at best. The Timbers will likely have to proceed without his services. Although he has struggled down the stretch, losing him for the final matches including playoffs would be a massive blow.
Antony will likely be called upon next with Mason Toye and Marvin Loría providing depth.
If you missed this clip of Evander joining the Juan David Mosquera media availability, check it out.
“Five years here and no English.” - Evander to JDM
Marta & Evander Jersey Swap
So much greatness.
Contract Extension
Alexa Spaanstra has signed a contract extension with the Portland Thorns through the 2026 season.
“Alexa’s acquisition earlier this year was purposeful and strategic. We brought her in knowing that free agency was looming, with the intention of signing her to an extension and investing to secure her as part of our long term plans,” General Manager and President of Soccer Operations Karina LeBlanc said. “Despite just recently joining the club, Alexa has already become a dynamic part of our team, and we are excited to see how she will continue to grow and develop with even more time.”
How did she celebrate the announcement? By scoring her first goal for her new club.
After being acquired from Kansas City Current by trade on August 19, 2024, the winger has been one of the bright spots this season - although her recent lack of minutes is still a headscratcher.
Portland Thorns Advance
With their 6-0 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Portland Thorns are into the semifinals of the CONCACAF W Championship that will take place on May 22, 2025.
They will either play NJ/NY Gotham FC or Tigres. The two clubs play tonight at Red Bull Arena with the winner playing Portland Thorns in the semifinals.
Who won the Thorns group? San Diego Wave and Club América play tonight to determine the group winner. The Wave need at least a point or they’re out and América would move on. Portland Thorns are locked in as the second place finisher, which frankly doesn’t matter too much with the semifinals being on a neutral field.
However, the biggest story was Christine Sinclair coming home to Vancouver one last time, but as a Portland Thorn for the first time ever.
The standing ovation was absolutely deserved for the GOAT. The full circle moment of spending one of her last games as a professional footballer in her Vancouver is so dang special.
Former Timber Zarek Valentin Retires
Once (and always) a Timber Zarek Valentin announced his retirement in an emotional video posted to twitter on Wednesday morning. Citing recent injuries and general wear and tear on his body, the Pennsylvania-born player is hanging up his boots after 14 years as a pro.
Valentin was on the Timbers from 2016 - 2019, and was a steady veteran presence on the backline. The fullback started the 2018 MLS Cup final, and was very active in the Portland community. His Ribbonz campaign in 2019 to raise money for LGBTQ+ support organizations in Portland was reflective of Valentin’s engagement in the city.
He left Portland as a fan favorite for his efforts on and off the pitch. And who can forget his lovely bromance with Diego Valeri, and his iconic interview with Connie Valeri:
He visited a young man from Iraq that we sponsored, while he was in OHSU for surgery. Never forget his kindness. A mensch, if you can apply that term to a Gentile.
I don't necessarily miss him as a player, but Zarek was and is a good dude, and I'll miss having him around the league.