New York City FC were recently able to get to the top of the table at MLS Eastern Conference with the five games win streak which ended now against Toronto FC with a 1-1 draw. The home side grabbed the lead quite early with a fantastic free-kick goal by Alexandru Mitriță. However, Toronto FC managed to equalise not much before the break.
This tactical analysis will take a look at the main tactical patterns of the teams with the aim to analyse the tactics that New York City FC and Toronto FC applied for this game.
Lineups
The guests formed a 4-2-3-1 shape with two personnel changes in the starting lineup. Firstly, Greg Vanney replaced Laurent Ciman in the middle of the defensive four with Chris Mavinga. Secondly, Instead of Patrick Mullins, Jozy Altidore returned to the team after missed the games against New England and Cincinnati. Furthermore, on the wings, Nicolas Benezet employed on the left and Erickson Gallardo on the right, however, they could switch sides.
Meanwhile, at New York City FC the biggest question was how they fill the absence of the important players like Maximiliano Moralez (most assists) or Héber Araujo dos Santos who has the most goals (14) in the team in this season. Tony Rocha played instead of Moralez and Valentín Castellanos replaced Héber as he did the previous game against New England.
Another change was in the formation. Domènec Torrent opted for a 4-1-4-1 shape according to Whoscored, but it was rather a 3-4-3/3-4-2-1 in possession and 5-4-1 in defence.
To read the full tactical analysis of this game – click here
Artwork by @chapulana
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