The atmosphere was electric at Saputo Stadium as Toronto FC outclassed the Montreal Impact. Confidence is high for the Reds. Also, kudos to the guy who managed to get on national television yelling, “Josssyyy you suck!”
Here are three storylines to keep an eye on heading into Toronto’s game against the Portland Timbers.
Three Stories to Watch as Toronto FC take on Portland
Toronto FC has the best defense in MLS. No, this is not a joke.
Were Didier Drogba and Ignacio Piatti even playing? That was one of the questions I asked myself midway through the game. Yes, they had touches at various times. However, Piatti and Drogba were unable to make any significant impact in the Toronto box. Simply put, Toronto put forth an amazing performance at both ends of the pitch.
Shockingly, Toronto FC has conceded the least goals in Major League Soccer. This is a far cry for a team that gave up a league-high 58 goals last year. The additions of Steven Beitashour, Drew Moor, and Clint Irwin have actually performed as advertised. Every single piece has fallen into place, with Irwin being a dominant force at the back when his defense falters.
With an elite defense and Sebastian Giovinco up top, Toronto is well set up to be a prime threat this season.
Jonathan Osorio plays the position he wants to and performs well.
Osorio has made it known that he wants to be an attacking midfielder in MLS long term. His fancy footwork and smart playmaking are his specialties, and they’re not being utilized when he’s playing as a wing-back.
With Toronto’s defensive tactics to start the season, Osorio has been forced to play a gritty defensive role. He has usually been frustrated figure, struggling to get a clean touch on the ball. He looked comfortable on Saturday. Osorio did a fine job of creating plays and bringing forth offensive chances for Toronto.
Expect Osorio to feature in the same role as the formation brought forth Toronto’s best performance this season.
What version of Toronto FC will we see versus Portland.
To start the season, Toronto kept the play very tight; sitting defensively, not looking to keep possession, and hoping to squeak a point out of each game. However, it seems like Greg Vanney has opened up the play recently. This possession hit an exclamation point, as Toronto was fantastic with the ball. Toronto registered a 78% passing rate.
What tactics will Vanney deploy against the Timbers? The bet is on the free-flowing type that has been on display in the last couple of games. As Sunday is the last game of the long road trip to start the season, and Toronto surpassed their point target, expect Vanney to implement an attacking line-up.
HARRISON, NJ – MARCH 6: Sebastian Giovinco #10 of Toronto FC celebrates his goal against the New York Red Bulls during their match at Red Bull Arena on March 6, 2016 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
