Match Preview: Toronto FC Vs Real Salt Lake

The search for the Reds’ first win continues as they head back on the road for matchday nine, this time taking on Real Salt Lake (3-5-0, 9 points).

Toronto FC head into matchup after earning a point each in their last three matches, with draws against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Inter Miami and Minnesota United FC just last weekend. A previous win, however, had been much more allusive.

The search for that win won’t be easy for the Reds, as they will be looking for their first road victory against Real Salt Lake since July 2007.

Defenders Richie Laryea, Zane Monlouis, and Henry Wingo, along with forward Deandre Kerr, remain out and sidelined with lower body injuries. Yet, potential returns to the squad in Sandy, Utah are Nicksoen Gomis and Ola Brynhildsen.

The potential return of the Ola Brynhildsen might solve Toronto’s current problem, which last matchday man of the match receiver Deybi Flores touched on post match last weekend.

“Well, we just have to score pretty much is what we are needing is the last final third. We have created a lot of chances and opportunities in the last previous matches,” said Flores when asked on what he thinks the missing element is on getting over the winless hump.

“So yeah, we just need to be sharp and get it there, hopefully next match, we not only have chances, but we also score the goals so that we can get that win,” he added.

RSL will also be on the hunt for a victory at home. They are currently sitting tenth in the Western Conference after losing three of their last four and are coming off a 2-1 loss at Nashville SC.

The Real Salt Lake squad is led by USMNT attacking winger Diego Luna, who has stepped up this season after the departure of Chicho Arango in the offseason, and he’ll be on the search to get back on track.

The 21 year old has been vital to the club’s attack with three goals and an assist in the last four matches.

Coach Robin Fraser’s side will have to rely on the likes of Federico Bernardeschi, who put up a phenomenal performance in Florida against Inter Miami by scoring a goal and creating many more chances, along with Derrick Etienne Jr, Jonathan Osorio, and Theo Corbeanu to generate some offence. Youngsters like Tyrese Spicer and Charlie Sharp, who got his home debut last weekend after being substituted into the match, can also contribute. The recent signing of Maxime Dominguez could also see more playing time up in Utah.

The three points are up for grabs for both sides, with each side coming in hungry for their own reasons.

Catch matchday number 9 for Toronto FC with kickoff set at 9:30 PM EST.