Throughout the initial period of the 2026 MLS campaign, FC Cincinnati had struggled to find their optimal form; however, the Orange and Blue ignited spectacularly, propelled by a stellar display from Evander, in their dominant 6-2 victory over Orlando City.
The consistent Brazilian performer showcased his renowned skill, bringing an end to the team’s three-game losing streak and achieving a historic individual performance at the core of Cincinnati’s offensive efforts.
Evander assisted French attacker Kenji Mboma Dem for a goal in the 42nd minute, levelling the score after Martín Ojeda had initially put his team ahead, and subsequently scored his own inaugural goal of the match in the third minute of additional time.
He continued to impress the home crowd following halftime, moreover, providing another assist for Dem to achieve his second goal shortly after the interval, once more occurring subsequent to a goal from Ojeda.
Pat Noonan’s squad proceeded to secure a full three points, as Evander netted his second goal of the game just six minutes after Dem’s, and then completed a trio of assists by finding Kévin Denkey in the penalty area, allowing the Togolese star to push the score to 5-2 in the 77th minute.
A goal in the dying moments by substitute Tom Barlow sealed the score at 6-2 during the initial minute of added time.
This marked yet another captivating display from the Brazilian player, occurring three weeks after a game where he contributed to four goals against Inter Miami, notably securing a hat-trick to overcome Lionel Messi and his team.
Despite the low probability of him ever representing Brazil at the senior level, Evander’s standing among the most talented individuals to have ever competed in MLS is undeniably secure.
