I watched the Toronto FC match against CF Montréal yesterday, and what unfolded at BMO Field was nothing short of spectacular. The energy in the stadium was electric as Federico Bernardeschi led Toronto to a commanding 6-1 victory over our Canadian rivals.
The Italian star scored twice in what became a statement win for Toronto FC. Having covered Toronto sports for nearly a decade, I’ve witnessed many heated Canadian Classique matchups, but this one stands out for its sheer dominance and attacking flair.
“We played with incredible intensity from the first minute,” Bernardeschi told reporters in the post-match press conference. “This victory wasn’t just about the goals, but how we controlled every aspect of the game.”
Toronto’s performance yesterday demonstrates a remarkable turnaround under coach John Herdman, who has transformed a team that finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference last season. The tactical discipline was evident throughout the match, particularly in how Toronto maintained possession while creating dangerous chances.
What impressed me most was the team’s balanced attack. Beyond Bernardeschi’s brilliance, four other Toronto players found the net in what became the club’s most lopsided victory against Montréal in their rivalry’s history.
The stats tell a compelling story. Toronto outshot Montréal 17-8, with 11 shots on target compared to just 3 for the visitors. The possession battle was similarly one-sided, with Toronto controlling the ball for 62% of the match.
For CF Montréal, this defeat raises serious questions about their defensive structure. Their lone goal came from a set-piece, but they struggled to create meaningful chances from open play.
“We simply weren’t good enough today,” admitted Montréal coach Laurent Courtois. “Toronto punished every mistake we made, and we made far too many.”
The victory pushes Toronto FC up the Eastern Conference standings and gives them crucial momentum heading into a challenging stretch of fixtures. For local fans who have endured some difficult seasons recently, yesterday’s performance offers genuine hope that this team might be recapturing some of its former glory.
As someone who’s documented this rivalry’s ups and downs, I can say this result will resonate well beyond the three points earned. It establishes a psychological edge that could prove valuable when these teams meet again later this season.
The atmosphere at BMO Field reflected Toronto’s performance – jubilant, confident, and brimming with possibility. From my vantage point in the press box, watching thousands of scarves twirling during “Sweet Caroline” in the 80th minute with a five-goal lead was a moment of pure Toronto sporting joy.
For Toronto FC and their supporters, yesterday wasn’t just a win – it was a statement that this club intends to be a serious contender in MLS this season.
