The focus returns to MLS play with a weekend fixture at BMO Field. Here are the Benjamin Moore three keys to the match for Saturday’s matchup against the Chicago Fire.
Bounce Back

A historic run in the Concacaf Champions League fell just short for Toronto FC, losing in penalties after winning the match 2-1 in Guadalajara. Naturally, disappointment and frustration may linger from coming so agonizingly close to continental glory.

There’s little time for the Reds to feel sorry for themselves, however, as the schedule quickly shifts to MLS play. The veterans within the group will have to rally the troops in order to put Wednesday’s loss in the rear view and approach the 2018 campaign with a renewed vigor. An Eastern Conference clash with the Fire in front of their home crowd could be just what the doctor ordered to get back on track.

Adapt and Survive

The MLS season is hardly two months old, but the grind of competing on two fronts is already taking its toll for Toronto FC.

Between a hectic travel schedule and a litany of injuries, head coach Greg Vanney has been forced to shuffle his lineup, often deploying his players in unfamiliar positions. It may well be more of the same come Saturday night given the number of injuries along the backline, meaning players will once again have to step up and make the most of a tough situation.

Nikolic Watch

Bastian Schweinsteiger remains the marquee name in the Chicago lineup, but he’s certainly not the only player to keep an eye on this Saturday.

Hungarian international Nemanja Nikolić burst onto the MLS scene in 2017, winning the Golden Boot in his first season in the league and propelling the Fire to a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference. A pure finisher, Nikolić has a knack for popping up in dangerous areas, able to score with his left, his right, or through the air. Communication will be key along TFC’s backline to keep tabs on Chicago’s danger man.