New York City FC Vs Toronto FC: 3 things we learned – Revenge is sweet
On Sunday, New York City FC defeated Toronto FC in the Round of 16 in the MLS is Back tournament. Here are three things we learned from their 3-1 victory.
On Sunday night, New York City FC faced Toronto FC in the quarter-finals of the MLS is Back Tournament. While the Reds wanted to punish NYCFC again like they did back in March, the Pigeons had one thing on their mind: revenge. And revenge is best served cold with a trio of goals.
The New York side beat Toronto 3-1, a shocking result after their struggles thus far in the tournament. A goal in the fifth minute from Jesús Medina put NYCFC in the lead, but it was the third goal from Maxi Moralez that sealed the deal. With just the goalkeeper in front of him, the 33-year-old put Toronto’s tournament dreams in the dust.
Here are three things we learned from NYCFC’s 3-1 victory.
3. Is Jesús Medina finally proving his worth?
Jesús Medina is, without doubt, one of the most critiqued and criticized New York City FC players. The 23-year-old was signed as a Young Designated Player back in December 2017, but in his first two seasons, he has not impressed fans. A lack of goals and aggression in attack led many to call for the club to move on this offseason. However, Ronny Deila obviously sees something, and Medina might just be starting to deliver.
Thus far in the MLS is Back Tournament, Medina has scored twice, including in Sunday’s match. In the fifth minute, a free-kick from Ronald Matarrita put the ball towards Toronto’s box. The ball then rolled to Medina from Anton Tinnerholm and the Paraguayan scored off a powerful and low shot.
In total, he had three shots and two shots on goal in Sunday’s game, illuminating his effort in attack. His aggression has improved in the last few games, which was extremely evident against Toronto, and his diligence in moving the ball up the pitch, combined with high energy, made him a solid asset in the attacking third. Where he suffered from anonymity before, he is now consistently present. Whether he is worth the DP contract is still up from debate. But so far in the tournament, he is proving he deserves to be a part of the team. And for now, that it is a step in the right direction.