Japanese rookie Akie Iwai fired a eight-under par 64 to seize a two-stroke lead after Saturday's third round of the LPGA Portland Classic.

The 23-year-old from Saitama, seeking her first LPGA victory, made seven birdies and an eagle against a lone bogey to stand on 18-under 198 after 54 holes at Edgewater Country Club.

Australia's Grace Kim, who captured her first major title at the Evian Championship, made a stunning eagle at the 17th, holing out from 156 yards from the fairway rough to shoot 67 and grab second on 200.

World number 29 Iwai, an LPGA runner-up this year at Thailand and the LA Championship, has won six times on the Japan Tour.

"After I made the eagle at five, I had many birdie chances, so good tempo," Iwai said.

"My style is aggressive. No change this week. Aim to the p

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