Atlanta Football

Toronto FC play the Portland Timbers for the first time since 2019 on Saturday evening as the business end of the season truly commences. With 10 regular season matches remaining, Toronto is 13th in the Eastern Conference with 26 points through 24 games. The Reds are just four points behind the Chicago Fire, who occupy the 7th and final playoff spot. Bob Bradley’s side are undefeated in their past three MLS contests, most recently winning 4-3 at GEODIS Park against Nashville SC.

Momentum seems to be rising in the buildup to a big Saturday night game on the shores of Lake Ontario. After a rare clean sheet in Foxborough and a goal fest in Nashville, the Reds return home looking to create some consistency to close out the regular season. Richie Laryea made his second Toronto FC debut in the Music City, assisting Jonathan Osorio on his second goal of the night. The fullback’s quality and experience should be massive for his side down the stretch.

The status of Mark-Anthony Kaye remains up in the air for the upcoming match, as the midfielder eyes a return to the lineup. Participating in training alone on Friday, it is unlikely the Canadian international sees many minutes on Saturday. Mark-Anthony Kaye is questionable for Toronto FC’s clash with the Portland Timbers on Saturday. The Canadian international has not featured for the Reds since the 4-0 victory over Charlotte FC on July 23rd.

Lorenzo Insigne notched his first goal for his new club last time out, which should help the Italian shake off any pressure he may have been feeling after failing to score in his first three TFC appearances. He will be one to watch at BMO Field as he looks to score his first in front of the home crowd. There has been some debate surrounding the starting striker role with Jesus Jimenez not having scored a goal since the 2-1 loss at home to Columbus at the end of June.