Sporting Kansas City midfielder Roger Espinoza's incredible chip shot to level the match against CF Montreal was named AT&T MLS Goal of the Week. Add the honor to Espinoza's week 19 trophy case as the veteran received a not to the MLS Team of the Week bench presented by Audi for his performance in Sporting's 2-1 road victory.
Espinoza's jaw-dropping goal from 44 yards is the second-longest goal from open play over the last three MLS seasons. Among Sporting KC players, Espinoza's goal is the longest goal from the run of play – and the second-longest distance goal overall -- in an MLS match during the Opta era (2010-present).
Espinoza not only produced the spectacular goal with a stunning shot but also set himself up by blocking an entry pass and regaining possession at midfield. His leveler ignited a spark for Sporting as they earned their first comeback victory this season thanks to a Remi Walter goal in the second half.
The magnificent finish beat out goals from New York City FC's Gabriel Pereira, Philadelphia Union's Julian Carranza and Charlotte FC's Andre Shinyashiki in a Twitter poll voted on by fans. Espinoza now has two goals on the season, one off his career high for goals in a season he set in 2018. Now in his second stint with Sporting KC after winning the FA Cup with Wigan Athletic in England, Espinoza ranks fourth amongst one-club MLS players with 304 appearances for Sporting.
Sporting KC is back in action on Wednesday night against Minnesota United at 7 p.m. CT. The rivalry road match at Allianz Field will air nationally on ESPN and ESPN Deportes. Following the midweek match in Minnesota Sporting will travel to Utah for a match with Real Salt Lake on Sunday, bringing a stretch of three straight road matches to a close.
