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FEBRUARY 21, 2026 – PORTLAND, OR: Timbers winger Ariel Lassiter scores Portland’s winning goal during Columbus Crew at Portland Timbers for MLS Opening Week (Photo by Diego G Diaz).
The Portland Timbers with a victory on a late goal by Ariel Lassiter. The Timbers winger’s goal was the difference as the two teams were drawing 2-2 in the last stretch of the match. Columbus opened the scoring with a goal by Wessam Abou Ali just six minutes into the first half. Felipe Mora leveled the score eight minutes later, and winger Anthony got Portland ahead in minute 20. Diego Rossi would level back for Columbus with a great goal in the 44th minute.
The second half saw a very even duel, with Columbus controlling possession and Portland creating danger in transition. Clear goal opportunities were scarce, but in the 88th minute, Ariel Lassiter capitalized from the center of the box to give Portland their first 3 points of the season at their home stronghold of Providence Park.
