Luciano 'Lucho' Acosta was on target again for FC Cincinnati in their 3-0 triumph over Charlotte FC, extending their lead at the summit of the Eastern Conference table as the regular season draws to a close.
Acosta has done it all for Cincinnati in 2023 while playing as an attacking midfielder, as the former DC United player has solidified himself as the MVP frontrunner with 15 goals and eight assists.
The 29-year-old's impeccable form has earned him a new contract at TQL Stadium, as it was announced earlier in the week that Acosta inked a contract extension through the 2026 MLS season with an option for 2027.
In his side's win over Charlotte, Acosta strengthened his grip on the MLS MVP award with another goal and an assist. He's now up to three goals in his last four outings.
"The most important thing is everything we've achieved with this team, this club," the Designated Player said after the win. "The process we've gone through since I arrived, how much this club has grown. That's the most important thing."
In 101 appearances for the Orange and Blue, Acosta has notched a staggering 35 goals and 41 assists with his side on the brink of securing the 2023 Supporters' Shield title.
"Obviously this is a plus for me," Acosta said regarding his new deal with Cincy. "This feels like motivation to go for everything."
"That's what you do it for," Acosta said as MVP chants from the Cincinnati supporters rang through TQL Stadium. "That recognition. It feels so great. To make the fans happy and to hear them say that.
"We're achieving great things. While we haven't achieved anything compared to what we can achieve, it was always in my mind, I've always had faith that I can leave my mark at this club," Acosta added.
Cincinnati, having already qualified for the playoffs after 26 games, will now shift their focus toward securing the Supporters' Shield in the coming games as they take on Toronto FC at BMO Field on September 30.
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This article was originally published on 90min as Lucho Acosta acknowledges growth in FC Cincinnati's stellar season.