Kick Off: Toronto FC reach first MLS Cup | Carleton stars for US Under-17's

Greg Seltzer

Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:

Reds letter day

Toronto FC rallied twice from an aggregate-goal deficit to score a 5-2 second leg victory against Montreal that clinched the Eastern Conference crown and their place in MLS Cup for the first time in club history. Though the Reds needed extra time and nearly let the series get away from them, Jozy Altidore and their subs drew top marks in securing the all-important win on Wednesday night.

Ousted Impact

Though they were undone by shoddy restart defense, Montreal are exiting the postseason with heads held high.

Winner-take-all

With the MLS Cup matchup now set, Will Parchman has filed an early preview for the December 10 championship showdown between Seattle and Toronto FC (8 pm ET on FOX, UniMás, TSN, RDS).

Two in, one out

Though Sebastian Giovinco was pulled before extra time with a knock on Wednesday, Toronto FC coach Greg Vanney says he'll be ready for MLS Cup. Likewise, Seattle midfield general Ozzie Alonso will also beat an injury in time to play in the title match. However, Sounders boss Brian Schmetzer stated that there will be no MLS Cup comeback for star forward Clint Dempsey.

Changes afoot

The Canadian Soccer Association and MLS have formed a new player development initiative that expands the Generation adidas program to Canada and also calls for Canadian players to be considered as domestic players on American club rosters without the need to occupy an international slot.

Real moves

Real Salt Lake have picked up contract options on five players, including back line prodigy Justen Glad.

Blueprint for success

Freshly re-signed Sporting Kansas City boss Peter Vermes outlined the keys to the team's future, discussing everything from the academy to Designated Players.

Fun, fun, fun

Alicia Rodriguez writes that we should expect Minnesota United to entertain under new boss Adrian Heath.

Come get me plea?

Nantes veteran Guillaume Gillet, who reportedly turned down an LA Galaxy move last winter, says he's still interested in playing in MLS.

Two for Andrew

Atlanta United Homegrown signing Andrew Carleton starred with two goals and an assist in the US Under-17 national team's 7-1 friendly rout of Portugal on Wednesday.

No son in the forecast

Swansea City manager Bob Bradley has poured cold water over rumors that he'll swoop for son Michael (currently busy leading Toronto FC to MLS Cup) during the January transfer window.

Wild at Hearts

Bjorn Maars Johnsen had another fine game on Wednesday, setting up the winner as Hearts blanked Rangers 2-0 to claim second place in the Scottish Premier League.