Messi netted his 12th goal of the season and recorded his sixth assist, while German Berterame scored Miami\u2019s second goal during a dominant performance at Nu Stadium. This victory ended Miami\u2019s frustrating 0-3-1 start at the venue, which officially opened in April.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dayne St. Clair made four saves to help Miami achieve their third clean sheet of the season, the first since a 2-0 win over Real Salt Lake in April.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
For Portland, the away game was tough again as they suffered their fourth 2-0 road defeat this season and their third loss in their last five away matches. Despite taking 16 shots, the Timbers were outshot 22-16 and trailed 9-4 in shots on target.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Messi continues to get closer to the league\u2019s scoring lead. The 38-year-old is now tied with Petar Musa and just one goal behind Hugo Cuypers in the MLS Golden Boot race. The Argentine superstar has also contributed five goals and all six of his assists in his last four games as he builds momentum ahead of what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup campaign later this year.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The eight-time Ballon d\u2019Or winner looked dangerous from the start, forcing James Pantemis into an early save in the fourth minute before scoring in the 31st minute.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Messi began the play from outside the penalty area, passing to Luis Su\u00e1rez before charging into the box. Su\u00e1rez combined well with Telasco Segovia, whose backheel pass set up Messi for a calm finish past Pantemis.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The eight-time Ballon d\u2019Or winner looked dangerous from the start, forcing James Pantemis into an early save in the fourth minute before scoring in the 31st minute.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
After controlling Rodrigo de Paul\u2019s cross with his chest, Messi exchanged passes with Suarez before maneuvering through a group of defenders in the box. He then made a precise pass to Berterame, who scored right away from close range to secure Miami\u2019s comfortable win.<\/p>\r\n\r\n