The game was already in stoppage time and New York City FC was about to come out of the Orlando with three points. That was until Orlando’s captain Kaká saved the day. New York and Orlando tied 1-1 thanks to a last-minute goal by the Brazilian.
After the first half ended
The Lions got a free-kick in the 91st minute of play and Kaka positioned himself behind the ball. From just under 25 yards out the former FIFA Player of the Year aimeD for the top left corner. A deflection by Jeb Brovsky sent the ball toward the left right side and into the net.
WATCH: Kaká's goal in the last minutes of the game vs NYCFC
That made most of the 62,510 fans at the Citrus Bowl jump off their seats. It also makes Kaká the first one to score on a regular season game in franchise history. It gives his team their first MLS regular season point and his first goal of the season.
Reactions to Kaka's goal including his own via Twitter
Kaka on his goal, "Amazing. I really wanted to score the first goal for this team. It's very special for my career."
— Orlando Soccer Daily (@OrlSoccerDaily) marzo 8, 2015
91' GOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL! EQUALIZER!!!! #ORLvNYC KAKA!!!!!
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) marzo 8, 2015
I've never felt a stadium just do what the citrus bowl just did. The City Beautiful just shook. Hell of an atmosphere. Love it Orlando City
— Michael Cecchini (@CheechJr1) March 8, 2015
It was by far the most awaited game in the inaugural weekend of the MLS 20th season. The game between these two teams marked the first time two new MLS teams meet in a season opener.
Kaká will travel with his team to Houston to play Dynamo next Friday. David Villa and his team will host New England Revolution in their home opener next Sunday.
A sea of purple for David Villa's and Kaka's MLS Season debut at the Citrus Bowl
Sea of purple pride. 62,000 strong. #ORLvNYC #citrusbowl pic.twitter.com/3FJeJG5Y9L
— Citrus Bowl (@CitrusBowl) March 8, 2015