Matched only by Messi: the Brazilian taking MLS by storm 🇧🇷 | OneFootball

When FC Cincinnati splashed $12m on the signing of Evander from Portland Timbers back in February, it's fair to say a few eyebrows were raised.

Today, that outlay looks more like a bargain than a gamble.

Since the beginning of the 2024 season, the Brazilian maestro has taken Major League Soccer by storm, racking up 41 goal contributions - matched only by global icon Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF.

What sets Evander apart? He's the only player in the league with at least 20 goals and 20 assists since the beginning of a the 2024 campaign, a feat that underscores both his creativity and clinical edge.

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder’s form has been nothing short of electric. He’s not just contributing - he’s defining games. With five goals in his last three matches, Evander has helped Cincinnati string together four consecutive wins, launching them into second place in the Eastern Conference and squarely into the title conversation.

And he’s making history while doing it. Evander recently reached the milestone of 30 career MLS goals in just his 62nd appearance, making him the fourth-fastest player in league history to hit 30 goals and 25 assists. The only players to do it faster? Carlos Vela, Sebastian Giovinco, and Preki - all of whom earned MLS MVP honors. That’s the echelon Evander now finds himself in.

Currently tied for second in the Golden Boot race with six goals this season, the former Vasco da Gama youngster's sights are clearly set on more than individual accolades.

“I want to win,” he said upon joining the Cincinnati. “If we can win Supporters’ Shield, MLS Cup, everything, I want to win. I know this group has a lot of quality and power to win both trophies.”

Evander’s arrival hasn’t just lifted the team’s play - it has transformed the locker room. FC Cincinnati GM Chris Albright couldn’t speak more highly of the club's new star. “He’s a lovely kid. He’s really easy to be around,” said Albright. “His body language, the way he responds to his team-mates and responds to adversity on the field has been excellent. That’s something you’d want out of a leader, out of one of your best players.”

With a historic record, a team-first mindset, and the skill to back it all up, Evander isn’t just making headlines - he’s shaping a new era in Cincinnati. And if his trajectory continues, silverware might not be far behind.

© Steve Roberts-Imagn Images