Can Toronto FC end a four-year winless streak against Columbus Crew in MLS?

But when Toronto FC hosts Columbus Crew, the numbers and the stats only add to a big rivalry storyline that continues to thicken with every get-together. And with good reason, as the two Major League Soccer clubs will contest their 44th regular-season match. Toronto FC look to snap a home winless run against Crew dating back to Oct. 2019. Columbus Crew enter this match atop the Eastern Conference and fresh from securing qualification into the 2024 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.

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For Toronto FC, the recent 2-1 win over Austin FC was relief welcomed after the international break in September. Goals by Canadians Jonathan Osorio and Deandre Kerr were backed by a sterling performance from goalkeeper Sean Johnson for three priceless points in front of their home fans at BMO Field. Now, the acid test comes trying to keep such momentum against a stronger opponent used to playing in high-stake matches.

Jonathan Osorio - Heart of TFC

But when talking about Toronto FC, one cannot forget Jonathan Osorio, the Canadian midfielder who has nestled himself as one of the important players in history in this club. His beautiful half-volley goal against Austin FC in the 7th minute wasn't only important but also his 65th for the club, putting him in league with legends like Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore.

Osorio also added to history, becoming the second in TFC history with 100 regular-season MLS goal contributions, notching a total of 48 goals and 52 assists. And his performances do not go unnoticed; he was included on the MLS Team of the Week bench for Week 32-the first such honor this season.

Stats don't lie, but Osorio's impact reaches far beyond the stats. He is the stalwart in midfield; he is the player who conducts the team and bridges the gap between the back and the front. The way he presents himself in key moments-as evidenced against Austin-makes him a respected figure and an obvious leader in the team.

Deandre Kerr: A Star in the Making

The other name which would be most notable is that of Deandre Kerr. Still only 20 years of age, he's already broken into the top 10 all-time scorers for Toronto FC. His goal against Austin sealed the victory and further underlined his growing potential at the club. Kerr now has 16 goals for TFC, and if he keeps up this pace, he is sure to be one of the points of attack in seasons to come.

So far, he has shown his maturity on the pitch and his ability to rise when called upon. The goal against Austin FC definitely proved this. His motion and knack for finding a space are very important pieces of the TFC attacking strategy.

The Columbus Crew Challenge

While Toronto FC is fighting for their playoff lives, Columbus Crew has already punched its ticket and arrives in town looking to gain momentum for the stretch run. Jacen Russell-Rowe leads the way for Crew, currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference. The win could jump them as high as second, depending on the outcome of Cincinnati's match.

The stars are not lagging in Columbus Crew's camp either. Derrick Etienne Jr., who was instrumental in Crew's 2020 MLS Cup win, is donning the colors of Toronto FC this season. The switch adds an extra layer of drama to the game, with Etienne surely having extra motivation to shine against his former team.

The Black & Gold have had a good enough season, and even away from home they're more than capable of making life difficult for Toronto FC. With 50 points from 27 games, Crew has been consistent throughout the year and is no stranger to high-pressure matches.

What to Expect from This Clash

Toronto FC comes into this game desperate and hopeful. The Reds are in eighth in the Eastern Conference, sitting on 36 points from 29 games, just inside the play-in zone. They know full well one slip-up could spell the doom of their playoff aspirations. Of course, last week's victory over Austin put some much-needed wind into the team's sails, but they'll be expected to give even more on the night as Columbus Crew is a quality opponent.

The biggest challenge in Toronto will find a balance between defense and attack. Crew boasts one of the most consistent offenses in the league, and keeping them at bay requires some top-notch performances from players such as Sean Johnson in goal and Richie Laryea in defence. In the same breath, TFC must be clinical in attack by converting the few opportunities that come their way.

On the other hand, Columbus Crew can afford to be more relaxed, but that does not mean they will give it an easy pass. As a matter of fact, their goal is to continued rising in the standings into the optimal level entering the playoffs. A win in Toronto may serve as the final push they need before confidently taking on the postseason.