New York City FC Vs Toronto FC: 3 things we learned – Revenge is sweet

New York City FC (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
New York City FC (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /
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New York City FC
REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 26: Valentin Castellanos #11 of New York City and temmates celebrate their second goal during a round of sixteen match of the MLS Is Back Tournament against the Toronto FC at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 26, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /

1. NYCFC have woken up

For the first time since the resumption of play, New York City FC finally looked like the talented squad they are. Sure, Toronto FC were not at their sharpest, but that does not take away from NYCFC’s improvement in play.

An increase in attacking chances and aggression enabled the team to take their chances. Scoring early helped the Pigeons’ confidence and the high intensity continued throughout the 90 minutes. NYCFC refused to sit back after that first goal and controlled the match thereafter.

Of course, it helps they finally scored a goal each in their last two matches, which included the win against Inter Miami CF. Ostensibly, the team just needed that first goal to get them going. Once they got it, the confidence started to flow.

NYCFC were also intent on revenge after losing to Toronto FC in the 2019 playoffs and earlier this season. As Anton Tinnerholm told reporters last week:

"“When we started preseason, we still didn’t forget about the playoffs. When it mattered the most, we weren’t there. Of course we want to take revenge from last year.”"

dark. Next. MLS is Back: Top 5 performances of Matchday Three

Between the want of revenge and the increased confidence, New York City FC finally woke up and played to their potential. They now seem to be close to their sharpest. And if they remain alert, they might just have a chance to move on even further in the MLS is Back Tournament.