Ariel Lassiter's 88th-minute goal lifted Portland Timbers to a 3-2 comeback win over Columbus Crew in their 2026 season opener.

Ariel Lassiter scored in the 88th minute to give the Portland Timbers a 3-2 comeback victory over the Columbus Crew in their 2026 season opener. Felipe Mora and Antony Alves Santos also scored for Portland, while Wessam Abou Ali had a goal and assist and Diego Rossi added a strike for Columbus. The Crew took an early lead in the 6th minute, but Portland equalized and took the lead before halftime. A disallowed goal for Portland in the 42nd minute and a long-range strike by Rossi leveled the score. Lassiter’s winner came from a deflected cross. Columbus midfielder Dylan Chambost exited with a hamstring injury in the 25th minute. The match marked the debut of both teams under new management.