Toronto FC are back in the Eastern Conference Final, after defeating New York City FC 2-1 in the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at Citi Field.
Toronto FC (13-10-11) was the number 4 seed in the East, New York City FC (18-6-10) finished 1st had an impressive campaign and it ended after just one playoff game in 2019, a product of the new single-elimination playoff elimination.
Toronto dominated the first half, but their shots led to no goals, Sean Johnson made four saves for NYCFC in the opening 45 minutes. Toronto Finally edged after the break with a poor header in their own box by Maxime Chanot produced an opportunity that Alejandro Pozuelo pounced on by beating Johnson with ease.
Ismael Tajouri-Shradi tied the game in the 69th miunte with a one-timer off a looping cross from the MLS assist master Maxi Moralez. But the momentum was chased in the dying minutes when Ronald Matarrita brought Richie Laryea down in the the NYCFC's box, and Pozuelo executed a panenka penalty to put Toronto in the Eastern Conference Final.
TFC, who now awaits the winner of the match between Atlanta United and the Philadelphia Union.
