Armando Cooper (pictured) experienced much success with Toronto FC and Panama in 2017. (Photo: Mexsport)
TORONTO, Ontario -- In a matter of seconds during the MLS Cup final Saturday night, Armando Cooper's luck quickly went from bad to good.
Four minutes into second-half stoppage time, the Panama international hammered a shot off the right post.
The ball found its way to teammate Victor Vazquez, who slotted the rebound into an empty net for an insurance goal in Toronto FC's 2-0 win over Seattle Sounders FC at BMO Field.
"It was a little bit of bad luck," said Cooper. "I have had bad luck recently in these kind of plays. I was happy because Vazquez was able to score."
The championship capped a memorable year for Cooper, who also helped Panama book a ticket to the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
"It's been a great year," the 30-year-old expressed. "I am very happy for this city, for the fans."
Cooper, who replaced Jonathan Osorio in the 85th minute, didn’t play as much as he would have liked this season. Still, he found ways to be productive on a team that is filled with international players and talent.
"There is a lot of competition on this team," remarked Cooper. "I would have liked to have started a little bit more, but I am optimistic towards the future."
Toronto FC will have a busy 2018, especially with its return to the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League.
"It's a very good team,” Cooper finished. "I feel right about it. I don't want to move anywhere else."
