Lucho Acosta unseats Messi and is in strong contention for second consecutive MLS MVP

If there's anyone who knows how to command an attack and carry a team on his back, it's Lucho Acosta. The reigning MLS MVP isn't just defending his title - he's dominating the league like few others. With 10 goals and 15 assists, Acosta has already amassed an impressive 27 goal contributions this season. And if that wasn't enough, he has a direct hand in 64% of FC Cincinnati's goals. That's right, two thirds of the team's goals come through the Argentinian's feet.

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Now, let's be serious: beating Lionel Messi is not for everyone. But Acosta did just that, beating the Argentinian star, Denis Bouanga and Colombians Cucho Hernández and Chicho Arango in the race for MVP. And it's not just about numbers - it's about control of the game, presence on the pitch and the ability to make everything look easy. Acosta is at the heart of FC Cincinnati's attack, averaging 15.8% of the team's touches in the middle and final third of the field, the third-highest mark in the league. He's literally everywhere, setting the pace, creating plays and panicking opposing defenses.

And the season isn't even over yet. Acosta is just four goal contributions away from equaling his output of 2023, the year he led FC Cincinnati to the Supporters' Shield title and the US Open Cup semi-finals. Given his current performance, he could well reach that mark as early as the next game. We're witnessing one of the best players in MLS history in his prime, and it's exciting to imagine what else he can do.

FC Cincinnati, led by Acosta, are the best team in the MLS at the moment, with more points than Eastern Conference leaders Los Angeles FC. With 48 points, Cincy are top of the Western Conference and playing soccer that is simply a pleasure to watch. Acosta's impact goes beyond statistics. He is a player who understands the game in a way that few others can. His vision, passing accuracy and ability to make a difference at both ends of the pitch make him indispensable to the team's success.

What makes Acosta even more impressive is his ability to adapt and evolve. He's not just a star on a strong team - he's the engine that makes FC Cincinnati tick. His intelligence on the pitch, technical ability and willingness to win balls back make him the complete player any coach dreams of having. With 81 decisive passes, he is the best passer in the MLS, always finding ways to open up defenses and create scoring opportunities.

It's no exaggeration to say that we're witnessing a career year for Lucho Acosta. He has already exceeded expectations and continues to raise his game with every match. If he continues at this pace, there's no doubt that he'll be in contention to win his second consecutive MVP award, further solidifying his legacy in the MLS.

And so, while Messi and other big names continue to work their magic, it's Lucho Acosta who is stealing the show. He is living proof that skill, dedication and passion for the game can take a player to incredible heights. FC Cincinnati is lucky to have him, and we soccer fans are lucky to be able to watch him on the pitch.