Goalkeeper Luka Gavran Scores Unbelievable Late Goal to Rescue Draw for Toronto FC
In a dramatic finish to a wild MLS match, Toronto FC goalkeeper Luka Gavran etched his name into club history by scoring a last-second equalizing goal against the Philadelphia Union on April 22, 2026. With his team trailing 3-2 in stoppage time, Gavran joined the attack for a free kick and headed home a cross to secure a 3-3 draw at BMO Field.
A Last-Minute Heroics
Philadelphia Union appeared to have seized victory when Nathan Harriel scored what seemed to be the game-winning goal in the 89th minute. However, Toronto FC refused to yield. Josh Sargent and Kobe Franklin had earlier erased a 2-0 deficit, setting the stage for a frantic finale.
As stoppage time unfolded, Gavran sprinted forward for a Toronto FC free kick. Positioning himself in the box, he met Alonso Coello’s cross with a powerful header that flew past Union goalkeeper Andre Blake. The goal came in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time, completing a remarkable comeback.
Historical Significance
Gavran’s goal marked just the third time in MLS history that a goalkeeper has scored, and the first for Toronto FC. The last goalkeeper to achieve the feat was William Hesmer for the Columbus Crew against Toronto FC on October 16, 2010. Danny Cepero was the inaugural goalkeeper scorer, netting for the Modern York Red Bulls in 2008.
Speaking after the match, Gavran expressed disbelief at the moment: “I can’t even remember what happened! I think there was 10 seconds left. I looked to the bench, and everyone was waving me down to move… I used to be a No. 9, you know!”
Match Context and Reaction
The goal capped a rollercoaster match that saw multiple momentum shifts. After falling behind 2-0, Toronto FC responded with two quick goals before Philadelphia regained the lead late. Gavran’s intervention ensured the visitors left with only a point despite leading deep into stoppage time.
Teammates and fans celebrated the unprecedented achievement, with Gavran noting the team’s preparation: “We do set pieces every day, so you know I’m used to it.” His effort quickly went viral across social media, highlighted by MLS’s official account sharing the goal under the caption “GOALKEEPER LUKA GAVRAN TIES IT AT THE DEATH!”
Frequently Asked Questions
How rare are goals scored by goalkeepers in MLS?
Extremely rare. Luka Gavran became only the third goalkeeper in MLS history to score a goal, joining Danny Cepero (2008) and William Hesmer (2010).
What was the final score of the match?
The match ended in a 3-3 draw between Toronto FC and the Philadelphia Union.
Who assisted Luka Gavran’s goal?
Alonso Coello delivered the cross that Gavran headed home for the equalizing goal.
Where did the match seize place?
The game was played at BMO Field in Toronto on April 22, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Luka Gavran scored the first goalkeeper goal in Toronto FC history.
- The goal came in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time to tie the match 3-3.
- Gavran is only the third goalkeeper in MLS history to score, after Danny Cepero (2008) and William Hesmer (2010).