Toronto FC secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over CF Montreal on Saturday, overcoming an early deficit with two late goals. Lewis Morgan and Djordje Mihailovic both found the net during stoppage time to clinch the win in the latest installment of the 401 Derby.
Morgan and Mihailovic's stoppage-time rescue mission
The comeback was orchestrated by substitutes who changed the complexion of the match in the final moments. As reported in the match summary, Lewis Morgan converted a cross from Niklas Dorsch in the third minute of stoppage time to level the score. The momentum did not stop there; just two minutes later, Djordje Mihailovic redirected a pass from Theo Corbeanu to secure the win for Toronto (7-10-11).
This late-game surge allowed Toronto FC to overcome a period of frustration. Earlier in the match, the team had struggled to capitalize on opportunities, including a narrow miss from Matheur Pereira in the 68th minute and several close calls that required intervention from Montreal's defense.
The impact of Luka Gavran's 23rd-minute injury
The complexion of the match shifted early due to a significant injury to Toronto goalkeeper Luka Gavran. In the 23rd minute, Gavran was involved in a collision with Montreal captain Prince Owusu, resulting in a leg injury that forced him from the pitch. This unexpected change required Toronto to rely on veteran backup William Yarbrough.
The 37-year-old Mexican-born Yarbrough made his first appearance for Toronto and his first MLS action since playing for San Jose on September 21, 2024. Despite the pressure of the situation, Yarbrough provided stability, making a notable save on an attempt by Alexis Sanchez from outside the box in the 36th minute. His ability to steady the defense was crucial as Montreal attempted to capitalize on the change in personnel.
Montreal's Daniel Rios and the 401 Derby's early momentum
CF Montreal initially controlled much of the tactical battle, largely thanks to the performance of goalkeeper Sebastian Breza. According to the report, Breza made two "dazzling" saves in the 11th minute against Daniel Salloi and Matheus Pereira to keep the score level. Montreal also managed to weather a scare in the 37th minute when Brayan Vera recovered in time to stop a dangerous play by Josh Sargent.
Montreal's breakthrough came in the 52nd minute through Daniel Rios, who scored his sixth goal of the season. Following a stopped attempt by midfielder Matty Longstaff, Rios successfully converted the rebound to give Montreal a 1-0 lead. This goal seemed to solidify Montreal's position, especially as they maintained defensive discipline throughout the second half until the final minutes of stoppage time.
The question of Luka Gavran's availability for Orlando City
While the victory provides a much-needed boost for Toronto FC,the long-term impact of Luka Gavran's injury remains an open question . The source does not specify the exact nature or severity of the leg injury sustained during the collision with Prince Owusu. This lack of clarity leaves fans wondering how long the starting goalkeeper will be sidelined.
The timing of the injury is particularly concerning given Toronto's upcoming schedule.. The club is set to host Orlando City this Wednesday, and the availability of Gavran will likely dictate the tactical approach for head coach Robin Fraser. Whether Yarbrough will remain the starter or if another option will be sought depends entirely on the medical assessment of Gavran's condition.
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