Petar Musa explodes in MLS and breaks record

Croatian shines with decisive goals and surprising movement this season
May 11, 2024; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Petar Musa (9) in action during the game between FC Dallas and Austin FC at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
May 11, 2024; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Petar Musa (9) in action during the game between FC Dallas and Austin FC at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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When Petar Musa arrived at FC Dallas in January, few could have predicted the explosive impact he would have this season. The Croatian striker has not only established himself as a vital cog in the team's attack, but has also broken records and become an indispensable figure on the pitch.

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Musa, at 24, has shown an impressive eye for goal. With 8 goals in his last 7 games, he has emerged as one of the most lethal players in the MLS. His performance is even more remarkable when you consider that all 12 of his goals this season have come from inside the box. This shows an exceptional ability to be in the right place at the right time, a skill that is a real gift for any center forward.

As well as being a natural finisher, Musa also stands out for his movement. He doesn't get stuck in his position of reference in the box, which makes it difficult for opposing defenders to mark him. This ability to move around and create space not only benefits his own game, but also opens up opportunities for his teammates. With two assists to his name, he proves that he is a complete player, capable of contributing to the team in various ways.

Musa's record of scoring in three consecutive MLS regular season games is a feat not seen since Jesús Ferreira in May 2023. It puts the Croatian on a high level within the club, on a par with the greats of FC Dallas' recent past. In June, Musa also achieved the feat of becoming the league's player of the 21st round, a well-deserved accolade for his constant and decisive performances.

Since his debut in March, Musa has shown that he's not just another squad member. With 7 goals in his last 6 appearances, he leads FC Dallas with 12 goals in MLS and 13 in all competitions. His ability to score regularly in consecutive games puts him as the eighth player in the club's history to reach such a mark in such a short period, and the fourth to do so in the last 14 years. This includes the likes of Roland Lamah, Paul Arriola and Jesús Ferreira himself.

Musa's impact goes beyond the numbers. His presence on the pitch has been a determining factor for FC Dallas, especially in a season where the team is struggling to climb the Western Conference table. Currently in 11th place with 26 points, Dallas are just four points behind Minnesota United, who occupy the final playoff spot. Musa's performance could be the key to the team securing a place in the playoffs and perhaps springing an even bigger surprise in the competition.

The MLS is proving to be an increasingly competitive and attractive league for players from all over the world. The enviable structure, with packed stadiums and a passionate fan base, offers visibility that many players seek. For Musa, this is a golden opportunity to stand out in a growing market and potentially catch the eye of even bigger clubs in the future.

However, the road to this point has not been easy. Musa has had to adapt quickly to the pace and style of play in the MLS, which is different from the European leagues where he has previously played. His rapid adaptation and success are testimony to his skill and determination. Not only has he embraced the challenge, but he has taken his game to a new level, becoming one of the top players to watch in the league.

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