TORONTO – It has been almost eight months since the two last met, but the echoes of those fractious encounters in the 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs still resound.
Toronto FC
and the
New York Red Bulls
met in the Eastern Conference Semifinals last fall, each winning at the other's ground, with Toronto advancing on away goals when the series finished tied 2-2.
Sacha Kljestan
may be gone and
Jozy Altidore
injured, but the
infamous clash
in the red-tinged tunnels of BMO Field will undoubtedly add some fire when the
two meet on Sunday afternoon
(4:30 pm ET | FOX —
Full TV & streaming info
) in a high-profile clash, pitting defending champions against contenders.
“We've built a nice rivalry with them the last couple years,” said
Jonathan Osorio
on Wednesday. “We're more excited to play and get ourselves going. I know they love to play against us."
“They're a very similar team to what they have been, their philosophy, everything is the same," Osorio went on to say. "There are different pieces now that have different qualities. It's crazy to say, but they look a lot more energetic than in the past. It's going to be a tough game for sure.”
Toronto are currently outside the playoff positions in the East, while New York are battling with
Atlanta United
,
NYCFC
, and
Columbus Crew SC
for the top of the Conference. Sunday's match will kickoff the final four months of the MLS season; much remains to be decided.
“[The top four] all seem to have their heads on straight,” said Morrow. “The rest is going to be a fight. Those spots are available.”
The Red Bulls have lost just once in their last nine matches, leading some to wonder if Sunday will herald a changing of the guard, a new team to beat emerging in the East.
“Good,” grinned Osorio. “Let's see how they act with that. We've been favorite and we made it to the final twice, that's not easy to do. Let's see what they can do. I would like to see that.”
