Brian White sends Vancouver Whitecaps on record-breaking MLS start

Whitecaps forward's late goal secures 2-0 win over NYCFC, extends club's best-ever opening to season

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a soccer match, with the players and ball represented through sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette, capturing the energy and dynamism of the game.A cubist interpretation of the Whitecaps' record-breaking MLS start, with forward Brian White's late goal sealing the victory over NYCFC.Seattle Today

The Vancouver Whitecaps continued their best start in the club's MLS history, improving to 6W-1L-0D, thanks to a 87th-minute insurance goal from forward Brian White. White's team-leading sixth goal of the season was also the 700th in the club's MLS history.

Why it matters

The Whitecaps' hot start has them atop the Supporters' Shield standings, leading the league in points, goals scored, and goal differential through the first seven matches of the season. White's continued scoring form has been a key factor in the team's success.

The details

White scored the insurance goal in the 87th minute, capping off a dominant performance where he put 7 shots on target. The goal came after USMNT midfielder Sebastian Berhalter set up the opening goal for Mathias Laborda. White honored former Red Bull New York teammate Bradley Wright-Phillips with his goal celebration.

  • The Whitecaps improved to 6W-1L-0D on the season with the win.
  • White's goal in the 87th minute was his team-leading 6th of the season in 7 starts.
  • The goal was the 700th in the Whitecaps' MLS history.

The players

Brian White

A 30-year-old US men's national team forward who is in his fourth consecutive season with double-digit goals for the Whitecaps.

Sebastian Berhalter

A USMNT midfielder who recorded his 5th assist of the season to set up the opening goal for the Whitecaps.

Mathias Laborda

The Whitecaps player who scored the opening goal in the 2-0 win over NYCFC.

Matt Freese

The USMNT goalkeeper for NYCFC who made several good saves to deny White earlier in the match.

Jesper Sørensen

The Whitecaps head coach who praised White's improved dynamism and ability to turn and attack the goal.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Ever since Jesper has come in, they've tried to push me to be more comfortable on the ball. Whether it's holding the ball up, switching sides. I've pushed myself to be more selfish.”

— Brian White, Whitecaps forward

“I think that he is now a little bit more dynamic in the part of our buildup, and also a guy that can turn and go in front against their goal. I also have to say that [Matt] Freese had a very good game and he had some very good saves.”

— Jesper Sørensen, Whitecaps head coach

What’s next

The Whitecaps will look to continue their strong start to the season as they chase the Supporters' Shield. Their next match is against the Seattle Sounders on April 22nd.

The takeaway

The Whitecaps' record-breaking start to the MLS season has been fueled by the continued goal-scoring exploits of forward Brian White, who is proving to be a key piece in the team's push for the Supporters' Shield.