MLS Preview: Toronto FC v. Colorado Rapids

Toronto, who have not lost at home this season, host Colorado, a team that has only earned one result in five road games, in a rare night game at BMO Field.

Jun 13, 2008 3:16:22 PM

More On :  Colorado Rapids, Toronto FC

Toronto FC v. Colorado Rapids
When: 7 pm ET
Where: BMO Field, Toronto, ONT

The Gist: The friendly confines of BMO Field have proven a great advantage for the Reds, who have won two in a row at home and should continue their unbeaten streak against a weak road foe. The Rapids have lost their last three away from The Richard, though each was just a one-goal loss. Both teams will miss important players on international duty, meaning each will have their depth challenged.

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Why You Should Care: Toronto have given up just a single goal at home, but will face a full compliment of offensive players from the Pids. The visitors’ absences come at the back as Bouna Coundoul, Ugo Ihemelu, and Pablo Mastroeni are all representing their respective nations, and Facundo Erpen is downgraded to spectator status through suspension.


As a result, TFC’s Jeff Cunningham, with 99 career goals, has a great chance to hit the century mark. The well-traveled striker, however, will be without the service of Amado Guevara, but the crafty Laurent Robert will be back from suspension. Guevara is one of five TFCers -- Jim Brennan, Greg Sutton, Maurice Edu, and Tyrone Marshall --  on international duty, gutting the core of the second-year club. The Reds’ makeshift defense will have their hands full trying to contain Christian Gomez, although the Argentine playmaker may find BMO’s artificial turf as difficult to deal with as other visitors have.

He’s So Hot Right Now: Jeff Cunningham. Since regaining his starting role, Cunningham has scored in back-to-back games for Toronto to bring his career total to 99 goals. Against a defense that will be missing its starting two centerbacks, Cunningham should again have plenty of chances to find the back of the net.

Prediction: Toronto FC 2, Colorado Rapids 2

--Pat Walsh, Goal.com USA

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