Limping off the field after a celebratory postgame fireworks show, Chattanooga Red Wolves striker Juan Galindrez couldn’t help but smile.
In the first USL League One playoff match in club history, Galindrez provided a sensational goal in the 113th minute to defeat sixth-seeded North Texas SC 2-1 in a quarterfinal at CHI Memorial Stadium in East Ridge.
Perhaps the third-seeded Red Wolves’ most memorable moment in their three-year history came with seven minutes left in the second and final 15-minute overtime period. Despite falling to the ground in the goal area, Galindrez secured the ball between his legs and was able to roll over and knock in the score just under the diving keeper.
Galindrez ripped off his jersey and was followed by his teammates to the sideline, where he celebrated with a salsa dance as red smoke filled the air.
“I was on the floor and tried to work myself back up,” Galindrez said. “Luckily I was holding the ball very well, and as soon as I got my butt off the ground I was able to tap it in. And that was it.”