Montreal v Toronto FC: MLS betting preview, tip & when to watch

MLS, 12.30 Saturday night

Montreal Impact have sustained successive defeats for the first time this season and may struggle to justify their favourites tag in their home clash with Eastern Conference rivals Toronto FC.

Despite the recent dip Montreal are fourth in the table, seven points superior to Toronto, who have played two games fewer.

However, poor defending has become a persistent theme for Remi Garde's side, who have shipped 15 goals in their last seven games.

Montreal are desperate to stop the rot but it could be a tricky time to take on Toronto, who have been boosted by two new signings.

Toronto remain confident of pushing for a top six finish and believe they have enhanced their chances by acquiring Venezuela winger Erickson Gallardo from Zamora and USA international defender Omar Gonzalez from Pachuca.

It can be tough for new arrivals to make an instant impact but Gonzalez – a three-times MLS Cup champion for LA Galaxy – could be an exception.

Toronto have lacked a physical presence at the back and eagerly anticipated the arrival of Gonzalez, who has been involved with the USA team at the Concacaf Gold Cup.

Gallardo, who has spent his entire career in Venezuelan football, may need longer to settle and is a doubt for the Montreal match because Toronto are waiting for his international transfer certificate to arrive.

In any case the priority for Toronto head coach Greg Vanney is to tighten up at the back.

Toronto have not kept a clean sheet in their last eight matches but should be a lot tougher to play against with Gonzalez marshalling the backline and are capable of sharing the points.

Recommendation
Draw
1pt 12-5 bet365, Betfair, Hills

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