In appreciation of Tito Villalba’s epic goal vs. San Jose

Atlanta United’s 4-3 win over the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday will not be a game forgotten by anyone who watched it any time soon. While the lasting memories of this instant classic will always be the pandemonium of the VAR decisions coupled with the last-minute Josef Martinez winner, there’s perhaps and even more incredible moment buried deeper in the story.

Tito Villalba’s first half wonderstrike was in danger of being all for nothing as it appeared that the Quakes were set to run away, with the scoreboard showing 4-1 before the VAR shenanigans. His first half stoppage time strike will likely and should be nominated for MLS Goal of the Week:

This goal is the epitome of Tito Villalba. While he may knock in the simple goals from time to time, the majority of his moments in the spotlight for Atlanta are grand. Whether it’s notching Goal of the Year against Orlando, embarrassing defenders with ruthless skill moves, or scoring clutch goals, when he does something good, it’s usually special.

Just look at this goal. It’s even better in slo-motion:

You can’t hit a curling shot any better than that. The goalkeeper didn’t even come within a foot of getting a hand on it. Not only was it an immaculate shot, it came off a one-time effort. Just top drawer stuff.

It was an all-time great match that we’ll be talking about for years to come. Let’s not let Tito’s work of art go unappreciated.