Portland Timbers 3–2 Columbus Crew

By Adam Luna

Portland Timbers edged Columbus Crew in a dramatic 3–2 encounter, with a late winner from Ariel Lassiter sealing a high-tempo match filled with attacking intent, momentum swings, and decisive moments at both ends. The result highlighted Portland’s resilience and Columbus’s missed opportunities in a game that remained open until the final minutes.

Match Summary

Final Score: Portland Timbers 3, Columbus Crew 2Halftime: Portland Timbers 2, Columbus Crew 2

The match featured an explosive first half with four goals and relentless attacking play. Portland ultimately found the decisive breakthrough late in the second half, capitalizing on a moment of defensive vulnerability from Columbus.

First Half: End-to-End Football and Four Goals

Columbus Crew struck first in the 6th minute through Wessam Abou Ali, who finished from close range with a left-footed strike, giving the visitors an early advantage and setting the tone for a fast-paced contest.

Portland responded quickly. In the 14th minute, Felipe Mora equalized with a clinical right-footed finish from the center of the box, assisted by Gage Guerra and Diego Chará. The Timbers continued to press, and their persistence paid off in the 20th minute when Antony Alves Santos scored from the right side of the box, giving Portland a 2–1 lead.

Columbus refused to back down and pushed aggressively in search of an equalizer. Their pressure was rewarded in the 44th minute when Diego Rossi struck from outside the box with a powerful right-footed shot that found the top corner, leveling the match at 2–2 just before halftime.

Second Half: Tactical Battles and Late Drama

The second half began with both teams seeking control, with Portland creating chances through Kristoffer Velde, Cole Bassett, and Diego Chará, while Columbus threatened through Diego Rossi, Hugo Picard, and Sean Zawadzki.

Substitutions on both sides added fresh energy and tactical adjustments. Columbus looked dangerous in transition, while Portland relied on wide play and crosses to break down the Crew’s defense.

The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute. Ariel Lassiter finished calmly from the center of the box after a well-worked move, assisted by Kevin Kelsy and Jimer Fory, giving Portland a dramatic 3–2 lead.

Columbus pushed for a late equalizer but failed to create a clear-cut opportunity in the closing minutes, and Portland managed the final moments effectively to secure all three points.

Tactical Analysis

Portland’s victory was built on:

• Quick attacking transitions, especially through the wings and central runners.

• Clinical finishing in key moments, particularly Mora, Antony, and Lassiter.

• Midfield stability, with Diego Chará providing defensive cover and progression.

• Late-game composure, managing pressure after taking the lead.

Columbus showcased strong attacking potential but struggled with defensive organization, especially late in the match, and conceded at a crucial moment.

Key Performers

Ariel Lassiter (Portland Timbers): Came off the bench and scored the decisive late goal, demonstrating impact and composure.Felipe Mora (Portland Timbers): Led the attack with an early equalizer and constant movement in the box.Antony Alves Santos (Portland Timbers): Added pace and creativity, scoring Portland’s second goal.Diego Rossi (Columbus Crew): Provided a moment of brilliance with his equalizer and was a constant threat.Wessam Abou Ali (Columbus Crew): Opened the scoring and stretched Portland’s defense with intelligent movement.

Conclusion

Portland Timbers delivered a resilient and opportunistic performance to overcome a strong Columbus Crew side in a thrilling encounter. The match was defined by early goals, tactical adjustments, and a dramatic late winner that rewarded Portland’s persistence. For Columbus, the defeat will feel frustrating given their attacking promise and late concessions, while Portland will take confidence from their depth and decisive late-game execution.