Portland Timbers Triumph Over Minnesota United in Dramatic 3-2 Comeback Victory
In an electrifying encounter at Providence Park, the Portland Timbers pulled off a remarkable comeback, defeating Minnesota United FC 3-2 on Saturday night. The match saw the Timbers overturn a two-goal deficit, with Jonathan Rodríguez netting the game-winner in second-half stoppage time, courtesy of a crucial assist from Dairon Asprilla in his final appearance for the club.
The game began with Minnesota United in control, as Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Jeong Sang-Bin found the net in the first half, putting the visitors ahead 2-0. Hlongwane capitalized on a rebound from a Joseph Rosales shot in the 29th minute, while Sang-Bin doubled the lead in the 38th minute, finishing off a pass from Hlongwane.
Portland's response came in the second half, sparked by Evander's penalty kick in the 53rd minute, after Felipe Mora was fouled in the box. The Timbers continued to press and found the equalizer in the 73rd minute through Santiago Moreno, who slotted home a pass from Evander after a skillful run through the midfield.
The decisive moment arrived in stoppage time. Dairon Asprilla, brought on as a substitute, delivered a perfect cross to Jonathan Rodríguez, who made no mistake from close range, securing a memorable victory for the Timbers.
This win extended Portland's unbeaten streak to seven games, marking their longest run of the season and the second-longest active streak in MLS. The team has collected 17 points over this period, with five wins and two draws, showcasing their resilience and offensive prowess by scoring multiple goals in six of these matches.
Evander, who was instrumental in the comeback, recorded his ninth goal of the season and added another assist, leading the team with 11 assists and 29 points. His performance, alongside Rodríguez and Felipe Mora, who also have nine goals each, highlights Portland as the only team in MLS with three players boasting nine or more goals this season.
The match was also significant as it marked the end of Dairon Asprilla's tenure with the Timbers. Asprilla, who joined the club in 2015, made his 203rd appearance and provided his 20th career assist in regular season play. His contributions, including 33 goals and notable postseason performances, have solidified his legacy as one of the club's most impactful players.
As the Timbers look ahead, they will travel to face FC Dallas on July 4th, aiming to continue their impressive form and strengthen their position in the Western Conference standings.
Key Statistics:
- Portland Timbers: 8-7-6 (30 points)
- Minnesota United FC: 8-7-5 (29 points)
- Timbers' unbeaten streak: 7 matches
- Home unbeaten streak: 5 matches (W4, D1)
- Jonathan Rodríguez: 9 goals this season
- Evander: 9 goals, 11 assists, 29 points this season
- Santiago Moreno: 4 goals this season
- Dairon Asprilla: 203 MLS appearances, 33 goals, 20 assists for Portland
Goal-Scoring Plays:
- MIN: Hlongwane (Rosales), 29'
- MIN: Sang-Bin (Hlongwane), 38'
- POR: Evander (penalty kick), 53'
- POR: Moreno (Evander), 73'
- POR: Rodríguez (Asprilla), 90+2'
The Portland Timbers' resilience and dynamic attacking trio continue to drive their success, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next challenge against FC Dallas.
