North Charlotte Today

MUNICH, Germany—The Panthers secured a dramatic victory over the Giants in Munich on Sunday night with a game-winning field goal by Eddy Piñeiro. The match had been intense, culminating in overtime with both teams tied at 17-all.

Sam Franklin Jr., known for his clear voice, encouraged Piñeiro before the decisive kick, saying, "Hey, believe with all your heart. Head down, then boot it!" This message reached Piñeiro as he prepared for the crucial moment.

Piñeiro explained his routine before the kick: "Doing the same thing I always do, just stay calm, take a couple of deep breaths and then when I go out there just disconnect, point to the sky like I always do and ask God to give me peace."

The Giants initially had possession in overtime but lost it due to a fumble recovered by Josey Jewell. This turnover gave Piñeiro the opportunity to win the game for the Panthers.

Coach Dave Canales chose not to interfere with Piñeiro's preparation: "I just let Eddy be Eddy. He went out there, he had his process... And we always talk about, the bigger the moment, the smaller the focus."

Piñeiro dedicated his successful 36-yard field goal to his father. Reflecting on his childhood dream of becoming a professional soccer player for his dad’s sake, he shared: "My dad had a chance to come to Germany (and play) and he didn't take it because he had me and my sister."

His father could not attend due to recent health issues but was foremost in Piñeiro's thoughts during this pivotal moment. After making the winning kick, Piñeiro celebrated by running towards his mother in the stands.

"I was just running down to see my mom," said Piñeiro after securing the Panthers' 20-17 victory. "It was awesome too; I just wanted to point at her and tell her... we're together and we did it."