Montreal Impact Vs Toronto FC: 3 things we learned – Welcome, Ayo Akinola

Toronto FC, Montreal Impact (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Toronto FC, Montreal Impact (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 16: Ayo Akinola #20 of Toronto FC battles with Jukka Raitala #22 of Montreal Impact for control of the ball during a Group C match as part of the MLS Is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 16, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 16: Ayo Akinola #20 of Toronto FC battles with Jukka Raitala #22 of Montreal Impact for control of the ball during a Group C match as part of the MLS Is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 16, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

1. Ayo Akinola the hero again

The MLS is Back opening match for Toronto FC was a breakout performance for young centre-forward, Ayo Akinola. Starting in place of Jozy Altidore, the striker scored twice to hand Toronto a two-goal lead after a brilliant first-half performance from the Reds. And on this occasion, he was at it once again.

His three goals here showed terrific anticipation, movement and composure. His first looks simple. But his run to drift away from the Montreal defender at the far post was subtle and sensational. He then poked home Alejandro Pozuelo’s sumptuous low cross. His second was a brilliant run in behind the Impact defence and low finish into the far corner.

Then his third was a moment of individual inspiration. Toronto were on the ropes in the second half. A long Quentin Westberg clearance, a strong Akinola shoulder, and a lovely, composed finish put the game to bed and TFC clear.

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The young striker is the hero again. He is the top scorer in the competition and he might just provide Toronto FC with the striker to partner Altidore.