The eye-popping talent has always been there. The health? Not so much.
But now that Sporting Kansas City center back Ike Opara is back from his most recent injury, a broken ankle that ended his 2014 season in March, he is showing that talent can translate into some pretty special moments on the field. And the numbers are showing he just might be the best center back in MLS.
He leads all defenders with two goals already this season – including a booming, game-winning header in SKC’s 1-0 victory over New York City FC last weekend (video above). And he’s No. 1 – or tied for the lead – in a number of other categories: aerials attempted (38), aerials won (23), clearances (36) and headed clearances (25).
Fans will get to see what he has in store next when Sporting play host to the Philadelphia Union in a nationally televised Sunday meeting at Sporting Park (7 pm ET; Fox Sports 1).
