Cant play in Match Maker

[LT_FogHorn]

I have tried to read as much as I can about the problem I am having. I can play Links Tournaments with no problem. But, If I want to play with someone. I either get "Connection Failed" when I try to play in the Matchmaker forumn, or if I try to use Direct connection, and it doesnt matter if I host or not, I never am able to connect with anybody else.
I have downloaded the Port Forwarding but I cannot pay for the 29.95 to update my Router. Is this the answer? I have turned off all of my Firewalls to try and connect but with no luck.

Thx all, Pat