San Jose's Cristian Espinoza makes history in 2-0 triumph over Sounders

Cristian Espinoza has become the all-time assists leader for San Jose Earthquakes after notching one assist and one goal against the Seattle Sounders.

In a moment where left-back Miguel Trauco will get most, if not all, of the attention due to his sunning goal against Seattle, the man who assisted the strike from a corner kick also had a moment to celebrate. On that set piece, forward Cristian Espinoza became San Jose's all-time assists leader (51) passing Shea Salinas.

"It makes me feel very happy because I can see all the effort and sacrifices that I made in every single training session since I arrived here paying off now," said Espinoza.

The 28-year-old is in the form of his life this season, managing 11 goals and five assists in 23 games played. His stellar performances, which have earned him a seat at the MLS MVP debates, has helped San Jose to fifth in the Western Conference table with 32 points.

While he has been the driving force behind San Jose's success, he insists that he is more worried about the collective than the individual.

"At the same time, I try to keep the focus on trying to help the team. I think that is the most important thing for me."

Now, Espinoza and the Earthquakes will have a little bit of a break to get fit for their 2023 Leagues Cup matchup against Portland Timbers on July 22. Following that game, the Western Conference team will then take on Liga MX outfit Tigres on July 30.