Brazilian defender Raul Gustavo scored his first goal for New York City FC in a crucial 3-1 away victory over NY Red Bulls on Wednesday, booking NYCFC's place in the US Cup quarterfinals.
The 27-year-old center-back, who joined NYCFC for his second MLS season after spells with Corinthians, Bahia, and Hungarian club Ferencvaros, dominated defensively while contributing the breakthrough goal against their cross-town rivals.
"I'm very happy to have scored my first goal with the New York shirt, but even happier about our qualification for the quarterfinals," Gustavo said after the match. "I'm a defender with a good offensive aerial ball, in all the clubs I've been to I've scored goals, and thank God yesterday I was able to score my first one with this shirt."
Gustavo has been a consistent presence for NYCFC this season, starting 11 of 12 possible matches as the club sits seventh in the Eastern Conference with the final direct playoff spot.
NYCFC returns to MLS action this Sunday at home against DC United, looking to build on their cup success and strengthen their playoff position.
"We knew it would be tough, especially playing away from home, but we managed to have a great game and build a deserved result," Gustavo added. "Now our focus is back on the MLS, where we have a tough game at home already this weekend and we need the three points."
