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Columbus Crew Vs Toronto FC: 3 things to look for – Exploiting shorthanded defense

By Marko Babic

COLUMBUS, OH - MAY 11: Columbus Crew SC Head Coach Caleb Porter reacting to a play during the game between the Columbus Crew SC and the Los Angeles FC at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on May 11, 2019. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - MAY 11: Columbus Crew SC Head Coach Caleb Porter reacting to a play during the game between the Columbus Crew SC and the Los Angeles FC at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on May 11, 2019. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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MONTREAL, QC – JULY 13: Toronto FC midfielder Nick DeLeon (18) runs with the ball during the Toronto FC versus the Montreal Impact game on July 13, 2019, at Stade Saputo in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
MONTREAL, QC – JULY 13: Toronto FC midfielder Nick DeLeon (18) runs with the ball during the Toronto FC versus the Montreal Impact game on July 13, 2019, at Stade Saputo in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1. The Toronto FC attacking plan

Greg Vanney will probably revert back to his preferred 4-2-3-1 after utilizing a 4-3-3 in midweek, opting to start players he rested on Wednesday for the most part. Given the home side’s potential weaknesses in defense, Vanney’s usual attacking strategy might work to perfection in Columbus.

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As illustrated by the preceding graphic, Toronto FC should have two aims in the attacking third. Firstly, create four-vs-three opportunities on the right to get Auro or Nick DeLeon into space against Maloney prior to targeting Crognale by crossing to Jozy Altidore at the far post.

Secondly, they must utilize Jacob Shaffelburg on the left when he can go one-on-one with Luis Diaz or Harrison Afful. The Reds left-winger may then aim for Altidore at the near post when met by Afful, or cross to DeLeon at the far post when marked by Diaz, hoping to catch Maloney off guard once again.

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With the Columbus Crew’s backline in disarray heading into Saturday night’s match, Vanney’s offensive approach is likely to result in plenty of scoring chances for the visitors unless Caleb Porter can find ways to protect Crognale and Maloney prior to kick-off on Saturday night.

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