Despite numerous problems, the MLS 2021 season gave everyone want they wanted.
There were plenty of ups and downs, late-game comebacks, stunning goals, and first-time winners in New York City FC. With the season firmly behind us and another one coming up soon, take a look at the latest soccer news and see if you’ve missed something.
After getting up to date, it is time to enjoy displays of both one-man shows and beautiful teamwork as we check out the best and most impressive goals of the year.
Josef Martinez vs. FC Cincinnati
Josef Martinez is a well-known name in the soccer world and he’s back in the 2021 season with a banger. After a rebound, Martinez managed to catch the ball on a volley and did a complete 360, no-look shot against FC Cincinnati. This secured a playoff spot for Atlanta United, making the goal even more worthy.
Anderson Julio vs. LA Galaxy
This goes down as one of the best late-game goals in the MLS. In the last minute of extra time, Anderson Julio set himself up for a beautiful volley right outside of the box. The feat was even more extraordinary, considering there were two LA Galaxy defenders near him. With a shot to the left corner of the goal, Julio secured a win for Real Salt Lake. RSL has one of the youngest teams in the MLS, with new homegrown talents signing professional contracts at the age of 14.
Dairon Asprilla vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Scoring a bicycle kick goal against San Jose Earthquakes seemed to be a trend in the 2021 season. Dairon Asprilla took advantage of the goalkeeper’s mistake and did a breathtaking bicycle kick from outside of the box. All anyone could do was sit back, watch and enjoy the show.
Raul Ruidiaz vs Austin FC
Everyone loves a long-range goal. Seeing that the Austin FC goalkeeper was slightly off the line, Ruidiaz smashed a 40-yard volley straight into the back of the net. This secured a much-needed win for Seattle Sounders FC.
Jakob Glesnes vs. Atlanta United
Jakob Glesnes silenced the entire Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta with his long-range shot, three minutes into the extra time. The Norwegian’s rocket bounced off the bar three times before going in and tying the score for Philadelphia Union.
C.J. Sapong vs. Orlando City
It’s always beautiful to see two players having great chemistry on the field. Nashville SC’s C.J. Sapong and Hany Mukhtar pulled off a beautiful passing game from their half, which ended up with Sapong doing a 360-degree turn and a sliding shot in the bottom right corner.
Hany Mukhtar vs. Philadelphia Union
Nashville SC showed some great teamwork this season, which is the main reason why they reached the playoffs. And while NSC lost the game, the perfectly placed cross by Eric Miller, followed by a flawless diving header by Hany Mukhtar, was surely a memorable moment for all fans.
Rubio Rubin vs. San Jose Earthquakes
This goal is named 2021 AT&T Goal of the Year. After a pass from his teammate, Rubin bounced the ball off of his chest and scored a stunning bicycle kick goal against San Jose Earthquakes. This was Rubin’s eighth goal for Real Salt Lake. If MLS players continue this form, there is a good chance for them to pursue a career abroad, as explained by Wayne Rooney.