New York Soccer Journal spoke with John Molinaro of TFC Republic to learn more about Toronto FC, New York City FC's opponent at Yankee Stadium on Friday night, the 18th match of the MLS regular season for each team. Here is your NYCFC vs Toronto preview.
• League Form: L-D-D-L-L
• Record: 3W, 7D, 7L | 16 points, 12th place in Eastern Conference
• Scoring Leader: Dániel Sallói, 4 goals
• Assist Leaders: Alonso Coello, Dániel Sallói, and Jonathan Osorio, 3 assists
1. Toronto's never-ending injuries
New York Soccer Journal: Toronto is winless in its last 11 MLS matches, with its last victory coming on April 4 against Colorado Rapids. Overall, it’s been a very poor season for Toronto, in 12th place and eight points away from a playoff spot, having totaled only three wins in 2026. What's led to the disappointing season?
John Molinaro: The attack has sputtered and the defense has looked suspect. But the main reason Toronto has struggled this season is due to a seemingly endless injury crisis that has denied coach Robin Fraser the opportunity to field a consistent starting 11. He’s missed key players for every game this year – 13 players were out injured for the game against Charlotte FC in May! – and has had to routinely play guys out of position.
2. Josh Sargent getting no service
NYSJ: Toronto signed Josh Sargent as a Designated Player from Norwich City in February in what was a big $22 million move, but the 26-year-old has scored just three goals in 10 appearances and missed the club's last game. How can Toronto get Sargent scoring more?
