Our prediction for this MLS match:
DC United and Toronto FC square off against each other at Audi Field in what is expected to be an exciting MLS game. The capital club suffered a 2-0 loss to New York City in midweek, but despite the defeat they remained in 8th place in the standings, two points behind the playoffs berth. DC United, are regarded as good travelers, and despite already suffering four losses at home so far this term, reputable bookies see them as favourites to win Saturday’s clash.
The good news for the hosts is that midfielder Chris Durkin is back from suspension. The Reds, on the other hand, are running down the blind alley ahead of the trip to Washington. Toronto are on a five-match losing run, and given their shaky defence, anything but a routine home win would be a major surprise. All Osorio, Shaffelburg, Mavinga, Okello, and Marshall-Rutty are injured for the away side.
Highlighted Player (Felipe Martins):
Felipe Campanholi Martins is a Brazilian footballer who was born on September 30, 1990 in Engenheiro Beltrao. After playing for the likes of PSTC-Londrina, Atletico Catarinense and Campo Grande during his youth career, he started his senior career at Padova.
The Brazilian midfielder appeared in no more than four league matches for the Italian club and in 2009 he moved to Switzerland, signing a deal with FC Winterthur. At the end of the season he joined fellow Swiss Super League club Lugano and he quickly established himself as a first-team regular. In the winter of 2011 Felipe moved to MLS, signing a deal with expansion team Montreal Impact.
He scored his first MLS goal in a 2-0 win over Sporting Kansas City on May 5, 2012 and he has been playing an important role in the team ever since. Felipe has yet to represent Brazil at senior level, but he could play for Canada national team in the future as he applied for permanent residency.
Highlighted Team (Toronto FC):
Toronto is a club based in Canada, but they have been competing in Major League Soccer since 2007. Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment own both the soccer club and National Hockey League’s Toronto Maple Leafs. BMO Field is the club’s home ground and the capacity of the stadium is 30.000.
The Canadian outfit impressed in the 2016 MLS Cup and they faced Seattle Sounders in the title game at BMO Field. However, the Canadians were more than unfortunate not to lift the silverware as they were beaten by the Sounders on penalties.
Speaking of the Canadian Championship, Toronto FC won their fifth domestic title in 2016, with the team beating Vancouver Whitecaps in the final of the tournament. Montreal Impact are considered the club’s biggest rivals and there have always been fireworks in meetings between the two Canadian sides. Toronto FC’s home kit is red and it is no surprise they are nicknamed the Reds. It has to be noted that the club was founded back in 2005.