(VIDEO) Tim Payne Scores Stunning Goal on Olimpia Debut Ahead of 2026 Copa Sudamericana

New Zealand international Tim Payne, one of the 2026 World Cup’s biggest viral stars, scored a spectacular goal in his Olimpia debut.

Olimpia from Paraguay received a major boost of confidence ahead of its 2026 Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 matchup against Vasco da Gama, scheduled for Thursday, August 13, with the game available live and exclusively on beIN SPORTS.

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The star of the day was New Zealand international Tim Payne, who enjoyed a dream debut by scoring a stunning goal in Olimpia’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Rubio Ñu in the 2026 Torneo Clausura.

The defender came off the bench and, just minutes after entering the match, delivered a moment that quickly went viral. His spectacular long-range strike into the top corner capped an unforgettable performance and allowed him to begin his chapter with El Decano in a way few expected.

Olimpia Unleashes “The Beast”

Head coach Pablo “Vitamina” Sánchez introduced Payne in the 69th minute with Olimpia already leading 4-0.

The right-back immediately made an impact. He won possession in his own half, helped launch the attack, pushed forward down the wing, and eventually found himself near the edge of the box to receive a return pass from Franco Alfonso.

With confidence, the 32-year-old fired a powerful right-footed shot that took a slight deflection off Brian Blasi before finding the top corner of the net.

The goal sparked a huge reaction from fans and commentators, with the broadcast describing the moment as a scene straight out of a movie.

After a debut few could have predicted, Tim Payne has already given Olimpia supporters a reason to believe.

El Decano needed to rebuild confidence after suffering two defeats at the start of the 2026 Clausura Tournament.

Why Did Tim Payne Become Famous at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Tim Payne’s story goes far beyond what happened on the pitch.

Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the New Zealand defender became a viral sensation thanks to a social media campaign launched by Argentine influencer Valentín Scarsini, better known as Scarso.

The goal was simple: support the player with the fewest followers at the tournament. The result was remarkable—Payne’s Instagram following skyrocketed from around 4,000 followers to more than 5 million in just a few days.

His unexpected rise in popularity attracted attention from clubs across different markets, including teams from Argentina, Mexico, and Major League Soccer (MLS).

After making three appearances for New Zealand at the World Cup, Payne left Wellington Phoenix and accepted an offer from Olimpia.

His arrival in Paraguayan soccer generated plenty of excitement, but his debut exceeded all expectations: a stunning goal, a standing ovation, and a perfect introduction ahead of a crucial international showdown against Vasco da Gama.