Toronto FC (TFC) secured its top position in the Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference table after winning 4-0 against the guest New York FC on Sunday. The emphatic result allowed Greg Vanney’s squad to lead five points ahead of Chicago FC who count 38 points – one more than third-placed NYCFC.
In addition, this victory extended Toronto’s winning streak at home to nine matches.
For supporters in The Six, the clash was quite an interesting one as it saw a reunion between two former Juventus stars: Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco and New York’s Andrea Pirlo. Both are known for their stellar free kicks but only one stole the show, yesterday.
In addition, the presence of New York’s David Villa, the most valuable player in the Major League Soccer, turned up the hype. Meanwhile, TFC’s defenders and goalkeepers had other ideas and did not succumb to their opponents’ attack. The script was written for the hosts’ darling boy to make a statement.
Giovinco scored two amazing goals – one from 10 yards and a second from a sumptuous free kick. The Italian, who was part of Italy’s senior team at UEFA Euro 2012, has scored 11 goals this season. His tally is at 50 goals in 78 appearances for Toronto FC. Out of those, he has converted 13 goals from free-kicks – the most of any footballer in MLS since 2003.
Two and a half years of greatness
— Toronto FC (@torontofc) July 30, 2017
Relive all 50 of Sebastian Giovinco's goals in #MLS play. Which was your favourite strike? #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/aJAtQjxwsl
Jozy Altidore and Raheem Edwards netted the other two goals to round up New York City FC’s miserable trip. TFC’s performance seems to send a clear warning to all their opponents; you have to go through the BMO Field if you want to win the title.
However, TFC coach Vanney didn’t want to underestimate other teams.
"Maybe. I don’t know. That’s up for [other] people to decide," Vanney said, as quoted by Sportsnet.
"We try to make a statement every game we play. Today was no different."
TFC captain Michael Bradley also kept his head on his shoulders despite the crushing victory as he added:
"That quiet confidence has to continue to be there. We have to remain humble and understand that the second our foot goes off the gas just a little bit that we can lose to anybody."
The Canadian side's next challenge in the league will see them play DC United away from home on Saturday, August 5.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
DC United 1 - 1 Toronto FC
August 5, 2017 7:00pmRobert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium (Washington, District of Columbia)This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
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