Thomas Müller shot the Vancouver Whitecaps into first place in the Western Conference of the North American Major League Soccer in added time.
The former German national soccer player scored in the seventh minute of added time to give the Canadians a 2-1 (0-1) win at Orlando City. “I trust the team, I love the team,” Müller enthused about his team – then he exuberantly hugged a questioner in front of the camera. “Let’s keep going,” shouted the 36-year-old.
Thanks to Müller’s sixth goal in his sixth appearance, the Whitecaps climbed to first place in the West with 63 points one game day before the end of the main round.
The top spot means home advantage in the upcoming playoffs. At the end of the main round, the Whitecaps will host FC Dallas in their own stadium next Saturday (local time).
The Icelandic Dagur Dan Thórhallsson gave the hosts the lead in the first half (24th minute). In the final phase, Nelson Pierre was able to equalize for Vancouver, then Müller’s big show came again: he made it 2-1 with a precise shot. “It’s a good feeling to know that we don’t lose every game when we’re behind. We even win,” said Müller.
Messi also scores happily
The former DFB player is not the only star who scores almost at will in the MLS. Football legend Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a 4-0 win over Atlanta United with his goals 25 and 26 this season.
The Argentine world champion’s club secured third place in the East. With his two goals, Messi also leads the top scorers list in the league, where Müller is far behind due to his move during the current season.