:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56824407/usa_today_10300322.0.jpg)
A forgettable two-match losing streak came to an end for the Revolution on Saturday, as the club used an 87th-minute game winner to put away Toronto FC. Goals from Lee Nguyen and Kei Kamara powered the victory, which served as Tom Soehn’s first as the Revolution Interim Head Coach.
These players stood out during the win:
Stock up
Gershon Koffie
Koffie’s stock will eventually level out. But on Saturday, the Ghanaian midfielder proved that he’s still on the rise. For all 90 minutes, Koffie reminded fans of his influence in the middle of the park, using his awareness and strength over the ball to disrupt several attacking opportunities. He ended with three tackles and a pair of interceptions.
During the win, Koffie also showcased an underrated part of his game this season: the ability to play physical-but-smart soccer. Koffie has picked up a mere three yellow cards, despite ranking near the top of the club in fouls committed. His pending return to Hammarby IF will serve as talking point this offseason.
Lee Nguyen
The Revolution creator has played his best soccer of the season in September, despite battling several injuries. Muscle spasms kept him out of the Starting XI on Saturday, though he made the most of his 27-minute substitute appearance, playing a role in both Revolution goals. First, he took a darting run across the 18, received a through ball and—with some help from a defection—ripped a shot into the back of the net. Then, he used a short corner to curl a flawless ball onto Kei Kamara’s head. His pass went down as the game-winning assist.
A 10-goal, 15-assist campaign will eventually serve as one of his best ever—and he’s not done yet.
Juan Agudelo
Since his return from the Gold Cup, Agudelo has struggled to match his early-season productivity. But on Saturday, the Colombian-born forward found his form. Playing in the number 10 role, he took on (and beat) multiple defenders at a time while showing great strength and skill over the ball.
Still, his defensive contributions made all the difference. Agudelo tracked back with purpose all night long, earning a match-high seven tackles. His continued return to form will provide a boost to the Revolution attack.
Stock down
Xavier Kouassi
Kouassi has met expectations when on the field. Unfortunately, he hasn’t seen the field enough. After missing the 2016 season with a knee injury, the Ivorian midfielder has again struggled to stay healthy this season, making just 13 starts (1,170 minutes). That’s not enough for a Designated Player who began the season as the Revolution skipper.
Strong play from defensive midfielders Koffie and Scott Caldwell has made it easier for the Revolution staff to rest Kouassi. But with Koffie unlikely to return next season, Kouassi will eventually have to carry the load. Can he stay healthy?