New York City FC take on Toronto FC at Citi Field this coming Sunday at 5pm ET.
For this edition of 'The Away End' presented by Berkeley College & Rennert International, we spoke to Anthony Khoury, Managing Editor at TFC blog Waking the Red.
Hi Anthony, thanks so much for speaking with us. How long have you been covering Toronto FC?
I’ve been covering the team for just over a year now. Toronto’s CONCACAF Champions League round of 16 tie with Club Leon last season was the first match I worked and time has flown since.
What’s been your favorite moment covering the team?
In spite of the team’s woes in 2021, the first team breakthroughs of youngsters such as Jayden Nelson, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty and Luca Petrasso have been an absolute joy to witness. The club’s academy graduates have rejuvenated the team when called upon while continuing to stake their claims for regular starting roles.
If I were to single out one specific moment, it would have to be Nelson's first goal for the club, which came against Real Salt Lake on April 9th, 2022. Rio Tinto Stadium has hardly been a happy hunting ground for Toronto FC over the years, so securing a crucial away point via an absolute screamer was something special indeed.
Where do you think the game was won in the meeting a few weeks back in Toronto?
Toronto FC won the midfield battle, and to me that was the all-important difference maker.
Jonathan Osorio may have only played 60 minutes, but he was TFC’s most influential figure on the day. As well as providing the assist for Jesús Jiménez’s opener, he completed 48/49 passes and 4/5 dribbles.
Osorio’s captain and partner in crime in the heart of midfield, Michael Bradley, also played a pivotal role in the victory, most notably with 12 ball recoveries.
Toronto comes in on a good run of form beating Philadelphia last time out - what's been the key to the last few results?
Simply put, TFC look as though they are enjoying their football once again. The team is steadily continuing to rediscover their identity following a dismal 2021 campaign, and Bob Bradley’s arrival has undoubtedly served as a major contributor to Toronto’s revitalization.
There is a newfound sense of urgency and desire amongst the players, something that was so often missed last season. Moreover, the collective effort of both the team’s seasoned veterans and prosperous youngsters have allowed fans to once again enjoy watching this football club play.
From a tactical standpoint, what strengths should Ronny Deila and his team be wary of heading into the game?
One aspect of Toronto’s game that has attracted the attention of many this early in the season has been the energy and flair of our full-backs and wingers.
In his debut season with the first team, Luca Petrasso has started in each of his six appearances for the club, and for good reason. Alongside Jacob Shaffelburg, the pair have formed a devastating partnership on the left flank.
Jayden Nelson, Kadin Chung and Kosi Thompson have performed similarly on the right side. Each of the players that I have mentioned already has at least one goal contribution to their name, so their vigor on either flank will be something to keep an eye on.
Are there any weaknesses you think NYCFC can exploit?
Toronto’s backline this season is full of fresh faces. The likes of Carlos Salcedo and Shane O’Neill have brought experience and poise to the side, while Canadian Premier League champions Kadin Chung and Lukas MacNaughton have injected some much-needed youthful energy into the defense.
Yet, TFC has not kept a clean sheet in MLS since September 25th, 2021. As Toronto’s new defenders continue to develop chemistry with one another, some miscommunication issues have resulted in the concession of some avoidable goals.
If you were to identify TFC's danger-man, who would that be?
As of late, it would have to be none other than Jesús Jiménez. The Spaniard has contributed to five goals (four goals, one assist) in his first seven games for the club, which highlights just how well he’s adapted to life in MLS. Priceless strikes against NYCFC and Philadelphia have helped to establish himself as Toronto FC’s ‘Mr. Reliable’ on the goalscoring front.
And finally, for any fans thinking of making the trip to Toronto in the future, are there any particular attractions you’d suggest checking out?
I could write a whole essay about this! Here are some of my personal recommendations:
- Toronto Island
- The CN Tower
- Kensington Market (Caribbean food there is a MUST)
- Casa Loma
- The Art Gallery of Ontario
- Nathan Phillips Square
- High-Park
- The Hockey Hall of Fame
- The Distillery District
