Atlanta United forward Giorgos Giakoumakis came so close to taking home the Golden Boot in 2023, compiling quite the goal catalogue in his first season in Major League Soccer.
The 28-year-old got off to a flying start in Atlanta, scoring in his first league start and netting four goals in four starts for the Five Stripes. From opening day to Atlanta's MLS Cup playoffs exit, Giakoumakis notched a team-high 19 goals while dishing out five assists.
Giakoumakis scored against backlines across the league and should continue to bag next season, especially if Thiago Almada sticks around for a little longer to supply the Greece international with favorable chances in front of goal.
Here are his top five MLS goals from his debut season - ranked.
5. Toronto FC - 15 April 2023
Giakoumakis didn't put too much pace on this headed effort, and it's because he didn't have to.
This one was all about placement against Sean Johnson, one of the better shot-stoppers in MLS. Giakoumakis quickly became one of the league's best headers in front of goal, scoring six such strikes, second only in MLS to Vancouver Whitecaps' Brian White (eight).
4. DC United - 10 June 2023
You may be wondering what exactly DC goalkeeper Tyler Miller is doing in this situation. However, Giakoumakis probably said 'thank you very much' in his head as he rolled in well-placed effort from a tight angle.
It was former DC boss Wayne Rooney's idea for Miller to come off his line like that, so maybe Giakoumakis can also say thanks to the Manchester United legend for this goal back in June.
3. CF Montreal - 23 September 2023
Atlanta teammate Xande Silva helped create this goal by forcing the turnover in a dangerous area for Montreal, and 'the Tank' pounced on the chance by chipping Jonathan Sirois from just outside the penalty area.
It was a touch of class from the former Celtic player, hitting the ball first time without a moment's hesitation.
2. Chicago Fire - 20 May 2023
Giakoumakis isn't typically the greatest at dancing through defenses with silky dribbling moves, but he was on this occasion.
A simple through ball unlocked the Fire defense, and Giakouamkis rounded Chicago's Chris Brady to put Atlanta back in front in an eventual 3-3 tie.
1. Colorado Rapids - 17 May 2023
There was simply no way that this incredible effort wasn't going to be number one.
Brooks Lennon's pinpoint accurate pass sets up Giakoumakis to do whatever he wants in front of goal, and what he does next is nothing short of extraordinary. The former VVV-Venlo striker goes up and over Colorado's William Yarbrough and smashes the ball into the back of the net for good measure.
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This article was originally published on 90min as Giorgos Giakoumakis: Top five goals from his debut MLS season in 2023.