CINCINNATI — Just when it appeared FC Cincinnati would have to settle for a point, Evander reminded everyone why he's one of Major League Soccer's most dangerous players.
The Brazilian midfielder scored in first-half stoppage time to lift FC Cincinnati to a dramatic 2-1 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday night at TQL Stadium, snapping the club's winless streak against NYCFC and moving the Orange and Blue further up the Eastern Conference standings.
FC Cincinnati wasted little time taking control.
In the 11th minute, Evander threaded a beautiful pass into the attacking third, where Kévin Denkey's effort created a loose ball for Kenji Mboma Dem. The former Dayton Flyer pounced on the opportunity, sliding home his fifth MLS goal of the season to give Cincinnati an early 1-0 lead.
The advantage didn't last long.
New York City answered in the 21st minute when Agustín Ojeda found Luighi in the middle of the penalty area for the equalizer. From there, both clubs traded quality scoring chances throughout a physical match that featured strong goalkeeping at both ends of the field.
Roman Celentano was outstanding for FC Cincinnati, turning aside seven shots to keep the Orange and Blue level as New York City applied pressure throughout the second half. His performance gave Cincinnati the opportunity it needed late.
That opportunity finally arrived in stoppage time.
Pavel Bucha worked the ball to Gerardo Valenzuela, who quickly found Evander inside the box. The midfielder spun between two defenders and buried a left-footed shot into the corner of the net, sending TQL Stadium into celebration and delivering three valuable points. The goal added to Evander's league-leading total of goal contributions this season while further strengthening his MVP candidacy.
The victory showcased one of FC Cincinnati's greatest strengths this season: patience.
Rather than forcing the issue after surrendering the equalizer, the Orange and Blue continued creating chances, trusted their defense to keep the match within reach and eventually found the breakthrough when it mattered most.
What's Next: FC Cincinnati remains at TQL Stadium on Saturday night when the Seattle Sounders visit Cincinnati for an interconference matchup.