Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew MLS Preview and Prediction
Consistency is the name of the game as both Toronto FC and the Columbus Crew are looking to build off recent performances when they meet up at BMO Field in Toronto on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET.
After conceding six goals in two defeats to open the season, Toronto responded with an impressive road win at Cincinnati, and then settled for a 1-1 draw with the New York Red Bulls at home after allowing a late equalizer. Daniel Salloi scored both goals for Toronto.
Columbus, meanwhile, is searching for that elusive first win after drawing two and losing two in its first four matches. The Crew have been held scoreless for 188 minutes after dropping a 1-0 decision to Nashville last weekend.
Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew Odds and Betting Trends
Despite the stronger play of late, Toronto enters as slight underdogs at +170 on the MLS odds, while the Crew are the favourites at +155, with a draw available at +250.
Salloi, who has scored twice in two games, is +110 to score or assist on a goal on Saturday.
Diego Rossi and Wessam Abou Ali each scored in the Crew’s opening two losses to Kansas City and Portland. Ali is listed at +105 to score or assist on a goal, and Rossi is listed at +110.
Toronto FC
Although Toronto (1-1-2, 4 points) has started the season unevenly, its two most recent performances provide confidence heading into the match with Columbus.
Jonathan Osorio provides midfield energy and leadership, but injuries are already a concern. Theo Corbeanu (knee), Nicksoen Gomis (Achilles tendon surgery, out for the season), Matheus Pereira (groin), and Deandre Kerr (adductor) are all out or sidelined.
Those absences have thinned Toronto’s depth, especially in defence and attack.
The club was recently bolstered by the signing of US international Josh Sargent. He had 76 goals and 24 assists during his time in Europe with Norwich City and Werder Bremen.
Sargent came on in the 70th minute and could get his first start against the Crew.
Columbus Crew
Going winless in four to start a season that lasts several months probably has Crew faithful on the edge already. After conceding five goals in its opening two matches, Columbus appears to have righted the ship in the back.
But what happened up top? The team scored twice in each of its first two contests, but hasn’t found the back of the net since.
Ali and Rossi have already exhibited their scoring potential this season. Rossi led the team last year with 16 goals and added nine assists, but Ali is already just one away from last year’s MLS total.
New coach Henrik Rydström is counting on Patrick Schulte, who has impressed early in goal.
Injuries include Mo Farsi (back/hernia, out until early April) and Dylan Chambost (thigh/leg).
The Crew’s attack shows promise, but needs to finish, and the defence, which quickly became much stingier, needs to retain its form.
MLS Prediction: Who Will Win FC Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew?
Toronto only went 3-7-7 at home last season, so the home advantage at BMO Field needs to be reestablished. Meanwhile, Columbus needs to rediscover its scoring touch and get Rossi and Ali back on the score sheet. With both teams focusing more on limiting opportunities rather than creating them right now, look for a 1-1 draw on the weekend.