Orbelín Pineda has made a triumphant return to Mexican football, scoring his first Liga MX goal in five years for Rayados. This significant milestone follows a challenging but ultimately successful European journey that saw him play for Celta Vigo and AEK Athens.

Pineda, now 30, found consistent form and contributed significantly to AEK Athens under Matías Almeyda, who subsequently brought him back to Mexico. His return to scoring began earlier in the week with a goal for Monterrey in the Leagues Cup. The emotional weight of his Liga MX goal is palpable, marking a full-circle moment since his last league goal for Cruz Azul in 2021, a season that culminated in a Guard1anes 2021 championship.