Toronto FC and the New England Revolution have booked their places in the knockout round of the MLS is Back Tournament with a 0-0 draw on Tuesday morning.
The result leaves the two clubs tied atop Group C with five points, though Toronto hold the tiebreaker and are occupying the top spot. D.C. United could jump ahead of both if they beat the Montreal Impact by two goals on Tuesday night.
An eventful 90 minutes, both teams had late chances to take all three points. With about 10 minutes left, Ayo Akinola was on a breakaway but Matt Turner made a great reflex save to deny the tournament's joint-top scorer. Akinola was later pulled down for what was originally judged to be a penalty kick, though Video Review intervened and ruled the foul took place outside of the box.
Earlier in the second half, in the Revs' best chance of the game, Alex Bono denied Adam Buksa from six-yards out. Brandon Bye played a low cross to an unmarked Buksa from point-blank range, but Bono stood big and cut down the angle to deny the Revs' Designated Player.
Jozy Altidore made his tournament debut, entering as a substitute in the 86th minute.
Revs star and reigning MLS Newcomer of the Year Carles Gil was unavailable, wearing a walking boot on the bench. His status is reportedly TBD for the remainder of the tournament. Bruce Arena opted to leave Gustavo Bou and Cristian Penilla out of the starting lineup as well.
Noble Okello, TFC's 20-year-old Homegrown midfielder and Canadian youth international, made his MLS debut off the bench.
Goals
- None
Man of the Match presented by Heineken
Matt Turner continues to deliver impressive performances for the Revs and Tuesday morning was no different.
He came up with a few big stops whenever his team needed (see below) and it was enough to send the Revs through.
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Both teams wrap up a strong group stage, though one is getting healthier while the other has a big question mark. Altidore looked sharp in his tournament debut, while Revs supporters will be holding their breath for updates on Gil.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: Here's that big save from Turner on Akinola, keeping the game scoreless.
- YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED: Did the Revs deserve a late penalty after this Michael Bradley challenge on Gustavo Bou? You be the judge.
