NYCFC: 3 things we learned from the 5-0 win against Toronto FC

1. NYCFC finally scored goals and that is why they won

There is no question the biggest issue in New York City FC’s 2023 season is the lack of scoring.  Goals are hard to come by game in and game out.

However, the Pigeons were able to find the back of the net against Toronto, and that made all the difference in the world.  As mentioned, the team scored five goals with four different scorers.  In fact, the offensive effort was notable all evening long.  They had 11 shots, but eight were on target.

The goals began to arrive in the 30th minute and Maxime Chanot started the scoring frenzy.  The center-back headed the ball off of a corner kick and simply put it into the back of the net.  There was nothing Toronto’s goalkeeper and former NYCFC captain, Sean Johnson, could do.

It was Santiago Rodríguez who had the best night, for the attacking midfielder scored twice.  His first goal could be described as a comical affair, which came during stoppage time of the first half.  Toronto failed to clear the ball, and he easily took possession.  When the Uruguayan took his shot, it deflected off a Red defender, which caused the ball to fly over Johnson's head and into the goal. 

These goals were necessary, and this was the missing piece from the majority of matches during the 2023 season.  Yes, the Bronx/ Queens team will not score five in every game, but if the team can start scoring two or more, then that will give them a chance for the remainder of the 2023 season.

The goals led to the win, but New York City FC has to wait for the result of the Atlas and Toronto fixture.  Nonetheless, the Pigeons should see themselves into the Round of 32 thanks to the 5-0 win and goal differential.