EASTERN CONFERENCE

In case you missed it this morning, the rival Portland Timbers announced a partnership with Alaska Airlines, which became the official airlines of the team and its jersey sponsor. The move makes Alaska Airlines the first airline jersey sponsor in the 15-year history of Major League Soccer. Logos and such will be all over Portland gear now.

One win from writing history. Defending U.S. Open Cup champion Sounders FC is a game from becoming the first team in the MLS era to win…

With FIFA set to announce the hosts of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups in December, hopeful countries have set up online petitions to gauge support for bringing in the tournament. Recently GoUSAbid.com reached the 1,000,000 mark in domestic supporters.

FIFA offered high praise for World Cup winner Spain in its official analysis of the event Thursday, and indicated African countries harmed their chances on home soil by employing foreign coaches.

FINAL: Sounders FC advance to the final with a 3-1 win. More to come.

STEVE ZAKUANI, midfielder

SIGI SCHMID, coach

MARTIN VASQUEZ, coach

Nate Jaqua scored twice, Fredy Montero added a goal and the defending U.S. Open Cup champion Seattle Sounders advanced to the title game with a 3-1 victory over Chivas USA on Wednesday night.