New York City FC welcome Toronto FC on Saturday.
The Boys in Blue take to the field at Yankee Stadium at 7:30PM ET.
Here are the Keys to the Match, presented by Ford…
Press, Press, Press
One of the major takeaways from Saturday’s game against Portland was how relentless City were with their press in the first half.
Their concentrated press caused Portland countless problems as did intelligent runs in behind by striker Mounsef Bakrar.
Speaking after the game, Nick Cushing stressed the need for his side to maintain that intensity across the full 90 minutes. The team will no doubt have taken valuable lessons from the Portland game in terms of controlling their intensity.
If they can apply those during the game against Toronto it will serve as a blueprint to success.
Star Man
Toronto made headlines in 2022 when they acquired Lorenzo Insigne from Italian giants Napoli.
The diminutive forward had a challenging campaign in 2023, but under new Toronto coach John Herdman he has started brightly with two goals in three outings – including a long-range game winner last time out against Charlotte FC.
Insigne typically plays wide left of a front three and likes to cut in on his right. That will provide a strong test for New York City FC’s right side, as they will need to limit time and space for the Italian to influence the contest.
Goals Galore
This will be the 26th meeting between City and Toronto FC with a collective 84 goals scored by the two sides.
That is an average of three goals a game, meaning Saturday could continue that pattern. Both teams are attack focused and eager to control the ball, meaning we will likely witness an exciting encounter at Yankee Stadium.
It will also enhance the need to control the middle of the pitch, with City having strength and depth in midfield. Andrés Perea and Keaton Parks lined up last time out, but with James Sands returning and Justin Haak ready and waiting to step in, City can build a midfield pair or trio to help establish control.
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