NYCFC vs Toronto FC preview: Please let there be goals

New York City FC has some talented players on their roster.  Many felt that 2023 should have been a better year with the talent on the team.  Alas, that was not the case.  Yet, there have been some solid signings for the 2024 season, so the squad is arguably better than last year.

However, the Pigeons have started the season poorly.  They have earned zero points, have scored once, and sometimes look lost on the pitch.  There is a legitimate fear they can lose four matches in a row when Toronto FC comes to town.  The Reds have won twice and drew level once, subsequently making them a scarier side compared to 2023.

At the same time, the Canadian team has only scored twice.  The difference is they have not allowed a goal yet in Major League Soccer.  This will undoubtedly be a challenge for NYCFC since they are struggling to find the back of the net.  The quality in the final third is missing in action.  It would be nice for the team to find their goal-scoring boots.

Truthfully, things are looking grim for the Pigeons.  Here is a preview of their upcoming battle against Toronto FC.

Date

NYCFC and Toronto FC will play one another on Saturday, March 16.

Time

The game is at 7:30 PM ET.

Location

The fixture will be at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY. 

How to watch

Fans can watch the game on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.  Fun fact: every single MLS match will be free this weekend!

Weather

The weather this weekend will be much better compared to last week’s game.  At kickoff, it will be around 51 degrees and partly cloudy.

Injury report

Maxi Moralez (knee) continues to be out as he works closer to his return. Talles Magno (left knee) and Rio Hope-Gund (abdomen) are also out again.

Players to watch

NYCFC supporters should watch Nick Cushing during this match.  The pressure is on the head coach to grab the first win of the season.  How will he act on the sidelines?  How will he adjust or will he be able to adjust tactics during the match?  These are all things to pay attention to.

On Toronto, supporters should watch Lorenzo Insigne.  The Italian player was frustrated last season, but it appears the new head coach is making things better for him.  The winger has scored one goal and consistently is an attacking threat.  His creative abilities make him the biggest threat on the team.

Prediction

This is not the same Toronto FC from last year.  Hence, the prediction is that NYCFC will lose, 2-0. It is difficult to see the team immensely improving from the first three matches.  Unless they play how they did during the first 40 minutes against Portland.  Even then, the most the Pigeons will manage is a draw. Nevertheless, the prediction remains the same.