One more match to glory; Toronto FC are back at BMO Field with a chance at redemption. Here are the Benjamin Moore three keys to the match as the Reds face off against the Seattle Sounders in the 2017 MLS Cup Final.
The Seba Show
Major League Soccer has never seen a game-breaking talent quite like Sebastian Giovinco.
Whether it be his ability on the ball, his unmatched set piece prowess or his creative presence, opposing teams know they’ll be in for a rough night when the Atomic Ant is on the pitch. With the MLS Cup on the line, the Reds will look to Giovinco more than ever to produce that moment of magic that could prove to be the difference on the night.
Despite lengthy spells off the pitch over the last three months, Giovinco insists he is ready to go for Saturday’s finale, and Toronto will certainly need him at his sparkling best against the defending champs. And after being forced out of last year’s final through injury, there’s no doubting he’ll be returning to the pitch with something to prove this time around.
It’s Bradley’s World
Arguably the team MVP in 2017, the Reds will once again look to their captain on the biggest stage.
Michael Bradley has been a force throughout the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs from his deep-lying midfield position, breaking up dangerous plays on one end while jumpstarting the attack going forward. Acting as the release valve to the backline, Bradley has been a key figure to Toronto’s build up play, consistently racking up the most completed passes and touches per game.
And with tenacious Seattle captain Osvaldo Alonso set to miss out through injury, Bradley should have even more space and time to impose his will throughout the match.
An Open Game
In the 2016 version of the MLS Cup Final, the Sounders were content to absorb pressure and grind their way through 120 minutes at BMO Field. The question is: will they be content to do this same this time around?
Both sides are decidedly improved versions of their former selves, and Seattle has been on a tear throughout their playoff run, outscoring their opponents 7-0 in four matches against Vancouver and Houston thus far. Riding high, Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer will have an important decision on his hands: go after the game from the first minute and ride their scintillating form, or buckle in for a cagey affair. Either way, MLS Cup 2017 should make for an interesting chess match between two top coaches.
