In the Canadian Championship semi-final, Toronto FC visited Hamilton to face Forge in the first leg of the semi-finals. TFC was coming in battered after consecutive losses in the MLS, while Forge had experienced ups and downs in their local championship.
The “surprise” for many turned out to be the winner in this match, highlighting that minimal errors continue to significantly harm TFC. The result was a 2-1 defeat for Toronto FC, marking the seventh consecutive loss for Herdman’s team in all competitions.
In the first half, just as the match was starting, the home side had an incredible opportunity to take the lead. Beni Badibanga unleashed a spectacular shot from the centre of the pitch, surprising Luka Gavran, who was out of position, and scored a spectacular goal to make it 1-0 in the 11th minute, leaving everyone in awe.
#TFCLive:Things aren’t actually that bad.
Life:
— Waking the Red (@WakingtheRed) July 10, 2024
Minutes later, TFC’s lack of concentration continued. After an excellent move by David Choiniere on the right flank, he sent a low cross that Kwasi Poku headed into the net with a backheel, making it 2-0 in the 14th minute of the first half.
First stage in Hamilton.#PARAVTOR #TFCLive image.twitter.com/vYLzPnlFzm
— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) July 11, 2024
In the second half, Toronto FC took control of the ball and dominated the match overwhelmingly against Forge. However, this was not enough to equalise, as TFC wasted their chances, in particular one from Lorenzo Insigne.
At the end of the match, Toronto FC managed to reduce the deficit, which gave them hope for the return match. Prince Owusu took advantage of a couple of rebounds in the opponent’s area and scored the 2-1 in Hamilton.
READ MORE: The need for a strategic change for Toronto FC
This match marked Toronto FC’s seventh consecutive loss, including both MLS and Canadian Championship play, leaving a bitter taste after Forge’s surprise semi-final win. TFC will need to wake up for the return leg if they want to make it to the Canadian Championship final.
Doubts about Herdman and his leadership of the team persist, as it seems that the problems start with the coach. The return match will be on August 27, which gives the club enough time to prepare for the match in the best possible way.
