by JACK HAZZARD
Can there be a miracle in the Bronx?
Down 2-0 after last week’s loss in the first leg of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, New York City FC is in dire need of an uplifting performance. NYCFC will need to reevaluate their game plan in order to score a minimum of two goals while conceding none to keep them alive in the postseason.
Sitting comfortably two goals ahead, Toronto FC will hope to net one goal away at Yankee Stadium, giving them an overwhelming aggregate score along with an away-goal advantage.
Can New York complete a historic comeback or will they see failure in their appearance in the MLS playoffs?
Match Information
Sunday, November 6th at Yankee Stadium, 6:30 pm ET Kickoff
Watch: FS1 · FOX Deportes · TSN4 · TSN5 · MLS LIVE
Listen: WFAN.com, 92.7 FM Que Buena
Stream: nycfc.com/radio
Referee: KEVIN STOTT
AR1: Jason White
AR2: Craig Lowry
4TH: Ted Unkel
AR1: Jason White
AR2: Craig Lowry
4TH: Ted Unkel
2016 MLS Records:
NYCFC: 54 points (15 wins, 9 draws, 10 losses)
Toronto: 53 points (14 wins, 11 draws, 9 losses)
Projected Lineups:
NYCFC: Josh Saunders; R.J Allen, Frederic Brillant, Maxime Chanot, Ronald Matarrita; Andrea Pirlo, Andoni Iraola, Frank Lampard; Jack Harrison, David Villa (C), Tommy McNamara
Toronto FC: Clint Irwin; Eriq Zavaleta, Drew Moor, Nick Hagglund, Justin Morrow; Steven Beitashour, Armando Cooper, Michael Bradley (C), Jonathan Osorio; Jozy Altidore, Sebastian Giovinco
The NYCFC Attack v Toronto’s Defense
Jack Harrison, David Villa (C), and Tommy McNamara vs. Eriq Zavaleta, Drew Moor, Nick Hagglund, and Justin Morrow
Having produced zero goals in Sunday’s outing at BMO Field, NYCFC will look to get their offense flowing this weekend. After the announcement that captain David Villa will not be suspended for his tackle on TFC midfielder Armando Cooper, Patrick Vieira and company can move forward with their offense in full force. Unexpectedly, Colombian winger Steven Mendoza had himself a quiet game last Sunday, suggesting that Vieira may make a switch to start Tommy McNamara.
Toronto’s defense deserved praise following last weekend’s outing. Having the ability to keep one of Major League Soccer’s hottest offense in check, the new and reformed Canadian defense found themselves controlling the prolific Spanish international goal scorer as well as his teammates — mark that as a valuable win for Toronto.
Advantage: Even
Toronto’s front line v the NYCFC back line
Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco vs. R.J Allen, Frederic Brillant, Maxime Chanot, and Ronald Matarrita (and Eirik Johansen)
Although they fell apart late, New York’s defense enjoyed a successful 84 minutes. Starting in yet another unexpected match, former Manchester City goalkeeper Eirik Johansen showed moments of excellence. Nevertheless, it was not enough as NYCFC allowed goals in the 84th and 92nd minute.
Toronto reaffirmed why they were one of the best offenses in Major League Soccer Sunday night. Showing their diversity with forwards such as Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore, and Tosaint Ricketts, Toronto was able to notch two scrappy goals to see themselves take the advantage over New York.
Advantage: Toronto FC
Midfielders
Mikey Lopez, Andoni Iraola, and Frank Lampard vs. Steven Beitashour, Armando Cooper, Michael Bradley (C), and Jonathan Osorio
Having two of their star midfielders sit out the last match gave no favors for New York City. Although Frank Lampard subbed on in the 61st minute, the Englishman was unable to produce for his side. With Andrea Pirlo still in question for the weekend, expect Mikey Lopez to get another start.
Toronto’s midfield seemed free and flowing last Sunday. Having the ability to play their forwards with simple lobs and one-twos, the Canadian side ran circles around New York’s midfield. With the reintroduction of Lampard, NYCFC will give Toronto a better run for their money.
Advantage: Even
The Coaches
Patrick Vieira vs. Greg Vanney
Greg Vanney is one of the most underrated head coaches in the MLS. Taking a cluttered, star-studded roster and earning his club their two first franchise playoff wins, Vanney has accomplished a respectable bit since joining the club in 2014.
Likewise for Patrick Vieira, the ex-French international has turned around an underperforming Jason Kries squad and has made it into a title contender. However, following his tactical approach and selections last week, Vieira has been under fire from fans.
Advantage: Even
Intangibles
Before Toronto’s recent 2-0 win, the Canadian side had never defeated NYCFC. Following the match, New York now has a 2-3-1 record against Greg Vanney’s side.
Posting a 6-6-5 record away from home, Toronto will have to travel to the Bronx to take on an 8-3-6 New York side. Although neither home or away record is greatly impressive, it reveals a stalemate for Sunday’s upcoming match.
Advantage: Even
Top Scorers:
Toronto
- Sebastian Giovinco – 18
- Jozy Altidore – 12
- Justin Morrow – 5
New York City FC
- David Villa – 23
- Frank Lampard – 12
- Thomas McNamara & Steven Mendoza – 5
Prediction
I think Sunday’s match will be the most exciting offensive showdown we will see in this year’s MLS playoffs. Having star-studded offensive lineups, there is no doubt that we will see goals. However, multiple goals do not bode well for NYCFC. In the end, I see NYCFC narrowly winning 3-2, but it won’t be enough to warrant a longer stay in the postseason.
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