MLS can call its Goal of the Year race right now.
Donovan Pines settled the issue before the season was even halfway over, scoring a goal of unfathomable brilliance for D.C. United, who had otherwise struggled to break down 10-man Inter Miami.
In fact, Pines’ goal is sure to draw the attention of the folks at FIFA who determine who wins the Puskás Award for the best goal in global soccer. No one in MLS is going to come even close to matching this absolute wondergoal.
The piece of wizardry came from an innocent-enough situation: Mateusz Klich’s corner found Steven Birnbaum at the back post, and the United captain headed the ball back across goal towards Pines. From there…what can we even say? It’s a masterpiece.
#VamosUnited find their way in front after a scramble at the goal line.
Donovan Pines scores in back to back games for @dcunited. ⚫️🔴 pic.twitter.com/IdtYgn7mYn
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 4, 2023