SAN JOSE, Calif. — Cristian Espinoza demonstrated his soccer prowess as he netted two goals and provided an assist, while Cristian Arango contributed with a goal and two assists, leading the San Jose Earthquakes to a commanding 4-1 victory against the Portland Timbers on Saturday night. This win marked the end of a three-game losing streak for the Earthquakes and halted the Timbers’ impressive seven-game unbeaten run.
The Earthquakes took an early lead when Espinoza found the back of the net in the 16th minute. He capitalized on a well-timed pass from DeJuan Jones, executing a seamless one-touch finish. Espinoza continued his scoring spree by adding another goal in the 24th minute. Moments later, Arango skillfully directed a header off a free kick delivered by Jones, securing a 3-0 advantage for San Jose just within the 27th minute of the match.
The Timbers responded in the 42nd minute with a goal from Felipe Mora, who expertly connected a one-touch finish from the center of the penalty area, courtesy of a well-placed pass from David Da Costa. Despite this effort, Portland (5-3-3) faced their first defeat since March 8.
Arango showcased his playmaking abilities once more by crafting a deft cross from the left flank to the back post. There, Ousseni Bouda was waiting to complete the scoring, sealing the game with a decisive tap-in goal in the 88th minute.