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Luciano Acosta: Meteoric Rise to Glory in MLS

By Arthur Fernandes

CINCINNATI, OHIO - NOVEMBER 25: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati dribbles during the second half of a MLS playoff semi-final match against Philadelphia Union at TQL Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - NOVEMBER 25: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati dribbles during the second half of a MLS playoff semi-final match against Philadelphia Union at TQL Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) /
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American soccer witnessed a true success saga during the 2023 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with Argentine midfielder Luciano Acosta of FC Cincinnati being crowned as the Landon Donovan MVP. His spectacular journey, culminating in Cincinnati’s Supporters’ Shield triumph, not only redefined the club’s standards but also highlighted Acosta as an unstoppable force in the soccer scene.

At 29, Acosta led the league with an impressive 31 goals (17 goals and 14 assists), guiding FC Cincinnati through an extraordinary turnaround from three consecutive seasons at the bottom to the top of the MLS. His unparalleled skill not only brought victories to the team but also solidified his position as a key player in what became one of the most dramatic ascents in the league’s recent history.

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Acosta’s recognition goes beyond the MVP title. Not only did he lead his team to the Audi MLS Cup playoffs for the second consecutive year, but he also secured qualification for the prestigious 2024 Concacaf Champions League. His transcendental influence on the field is evidenced by 43 regular-season assists since arriving in Queen City in 2021, the second-highest number among all MLS players.

CINCINNATI, OHIO – NOVEMBER 25: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati watches a pass during the second half of a MLS playoff semi-final match against Philadelphia Union at TQL Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO – NOVEMBER 25: Luciano Acosta #10 of FC Cincinnati watches a pass during the second half of a MLS playoff semi-final match against Philadelphia Union at TQL Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) /

The AT&T 5G Goal of the Year award adds an additional chapter to Acosta’s success story, highlighting not only his effectiveness in scoring goals but also the quality and creativity in his finishes.

Beyond individual achievements, Acosta’s journey symbolizes the collective spirit and resilience of FC Cincinnati. His long-term contract extension in September 2023 reflects the mutual commitment between the player and the club, solidifying Acosta as a central pillar in the team’s future ambitions.

The Landon Donovan MVP award, based on the opinions of players, the club’s coaching staff, and the media, could not have found a more worthy recipient. Acosta joins an elite group of Argentinians who have received this prestigious title, leaving behind notable competitors such as Dénis Bouanga and Thiago Almada.

Luciano Acosta not only shines as the star of FC Cincinnati but also illuminates the MLS scene, proving that with talent, determination, and passion, it is possible to transform a team and leave a lasting mark on American soccer.

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