Toronto FC delivered a composed second-half comeback to defeat Columbus Crew 2-1 at BMO Field, earning their first home victory of the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign.
Head Coach Robin Fraser made three changes to the lineup following last weekend’s clash against the New York Red Bulls, introducing Alonso Coello, Deandre Kerr, and Josh Sargent. Notably, Sargent made his first start for the club, while captain Jonathan Osorio reached a historic milestone with his 400th appearance for his hometown team.
Crew Strike First, Reds Respond
The visitors wasted little time asserting themselves, as Wessam Abou Ali opened the scoring in the 4th minute, guiding a looping header past the goalkeeper from Max Arfsten’s precise cross.
Toronto FC responded with sustained attacking pressure throughout the first half. Efforts from Sargent, Raheem Edwards, Kerr, Osorio, and Dániel Sallói tested the Crew defense, but goalkeeper Patrick Schulte produced a standout save in the 41st minute, tipping Edwards’ acrobatic volley just wide to preserve the lead.
Second-Half Comeback Seals the Result
The breakthrough for the Reds came in the 56th minute. José Cifuentes calmly controlled a low cross from Sallói before firing emphatically into the net, leveling the match. The goal marked Cifuentes’ first for Toronto FC, while Sallói recorded his first assist for the club.
Toronto completed the turnaround in the 83rd minute. Substitute Djordje Mihailovic delivered a well-placed outswinging corner that was met by a glancing header from Walker Zimmerman, securing the decisive goal. It was Zimmerman’s first tally for the Reds and Mihailovic’s second consecutive match with an assist.
Professional Finish and Historic Milestone
Toronto FC showed defensive composure in the closing stages, managing the game effectively to secure all three points.
Beyond the result, the night belonged to Osorio, who became the first player in club history to reach 400 appearances. He also joined an elite group in MLS history, becoming just the third player to achieve the milestone with a single club, alongside Graham Zusi and Diego Chará.
Key Takeaways
First home win of the 2026 MLS season for Toronto FC
First goals for the club: José Cifuentes and Walker Zimmerman
First assist for Dániel Sallói, who now has three consecutive goal contributions
First start for Josh Sargent
Historic 400th appearance for Jonathan Osorio
Toronto FC returns to action following the FIFA international break, hosting the Colorado Rapids on April 4 at BMO Field. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET
