In the first half against Miami FC last Saturday night, Cosmos defender David Diosa gained control of the ball about 50 yards from goal. As he advanced into the attacking third, he had an opportunity to pass it out wide left to midfielder Rubén Bover. Instead, Diosa whipped the ball into the box.

Leaving four defenders flat-footed, the ball landed at the boot of forward Lucky Mkosana, who accurately put it into the back of the net for the game’s opening goal. New York would go on to defeat Miami 3-2 at Ocean Bank Field.

“Before the game Gio was telling us to try some early crosses,” Diosa said. “You know you have to have speed.”

Diosa watched Mkosana knock the ball into the net, and then launched his fist into the air as he ran back downfield.

“I know Lucky is always making those runs. He’s always there,” said Diosa. “I just saw him and I gave him that ball.”

The 23-year-old Diosa has played 179 of 180 minutes for the Cosmos so far this Fall Season. His role at left back is expanding, and he is ready for the challenge.

Diosa credits team chemistry as a reason why he has been able to increase his level of play over the last few weeks. Compatibility with teammates is shaped at practice for most players, but Diosa has formed a bond with Mkosana off the pitch, too.

Mkosana is one of Diosa’s roommates, along with Bover and midfielder Sebastián Guenzatti. Diosa has assisted Mkosana in previous seasons as well, and admits there is a bond between Mkosana and himself.

“There’s a connection and a chemistry there, for sure,” said Diosa, adding that chemistry makes it easier to find teammates on the pitch.

Diosa has started in consecutive wins against Ottawa Fury FC and Miami FC, and he now looks forward to contributing more throughout the Fall Season.

For Diosa, earning more minutes has been a top priority. The opportunity to contribute has been long awaited. After moving from Medellín, Colombia to Queens in 2002, he suited up for the Cosmos’ U-18 and U-23 squads beginning in 2010.

Diosa signed his first contract with the first team in 2013, and has since made 21 appearances. He also credits patience for his recent success.

“It feels good to know that coach has confidence in you,” said Diosa. “I’ve been training really hard to get a chance. I’m going to play wherever coach needs me.”

Diosa and the Cosmos will return to Shuart Stadium at Hofstra University on Wednesday night when they host Jacksonville Armada FC. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.