Toronto midfielder Sebastian Giovinco (center) dribbled past Real Salt Lake defenders. (Photo : Reuters)
In a battle of two struggling teams barely holding on for a Major League Soccer playoff spot, Toronto FC is scheduled to host Orlando City SC in a match taking place at the club's BMO Field on Thursday, August 6.
Toronto is trying to hold on to fifth place in the overall standings with an 8-8-4 win-loss-tie record for a total of 28 points. The Reds have not been quite successful in their recent games, as they lost on the road last Sunday against the New England Revolution, 1-3, as per SkySports.
Greg Vanney's team settled for a 3-3 draw against Eastern Conference third-placer Columbus Crew prior to the loss at Gilette Stadium on July 26.
The Lions are similarly in a tight situation as they are a win behind Montreal Impact for the sixth and final playoff spot in the East.
After a draw and three straight losses in all of July, Orlando City snapped off the failures with a 5-2 home win versus Columbus also on Sunday, via SB Nation.
Canadian forward Cyle Larin led the Adrian Heath's men with two goals after a hat trick against in their loss against New York City FC on July 26.
This is going to be a tough match as Orlando City will be fighting to move up the standings while Toronto is always difficult to beat on their home field.
Prediction: A close 2-1 win by the Reds over the Lions. Larin will still be at his typical explosive self, but Vanney's group can muster a balanced attack that would prevail.
Toronto FC starting lineup (4-1-2-1-2 formation): Bendik; Morrow, Kantari, Perquis, Jackson; Cheyrou; Osorio, Findley; Delgado; Altidore, Giovinco
Orlando City SC starting lineup (4-2-3-1 formation): Hall; Ashe, Hines, Collin, Turner; Higuita, Carrasco; Boden, Kaká, Cerén; Larin
