Toronto FC Shuts Out Red Bull New York 2-0

Published: Sunday, October 18, 2026

by Niall Stavros

HARRISON, N.J. - Despite controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Red Bull New York fell to Toronto FC 2-0 on Saturday Night at Sports Illustrated Stadium, missing an opportunity to strengthen its position in the MLS playoff race.

 

The Red Bulls held approximately 68% of possession and outshot Toronto 15-6 but were unable to find the back of the net. Toronto goalkeeper Luka Gavran made three saves to help secure the shutout, while New York goalkeeper Ethan Horvath also recorded three saves.

 

Toronto took the lead just three minutes into the match after a cross from Theo Corbeanu intended for forward Josh Sargent deflected off Red Bulls defender Justin Che and into the net for an own goal.

 

New York responded by pushing forward and looking for an equalizer. The Red Bulls created several opportunities throughout the first half, including shots on goal from Cameron Harper and Cade Cowell, but Gavran stood up to the challenge and kept Toronto in front.

 

Despite New York’s attacking pressure, Toronto carried a 1-0 lead into halftime.

 

The Red Bulls made changes at halftime, bringing on Emil Forsberg and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting in an attempt to generate more offense. New York continued to look for openings after the break, but Toronto remained organized defensively.

 

Forsberg nearly helped the Red Bulls get back into the match in the 53rd minute, but his direct free kick sailed over the net. Choupo-Moting also had an opportunity in the 70th minute when his header off Forsberg corner kick went over the goal.

 

Toronto doubled its lead in the 82nd minute when Jonathan Osorio played a through ball to substitute Dániel Sallói. Sallói outran the New York defense and finished with a low shot past goalkeeper Ethan Horvath.

 

The late goal gave Toronto a two-goal advantage and put the match out of reach for the Red Bulls.

 

The Red Bulls nearly cut into Toronto’s lead late in the game when Julian Zakryzewski found the back of the net in the 88th minute. However, the goal was overturned because of an offside by Eric Maxim Choupo Moting.

 

Despite generating more shots than Toronto, New York could not capitalize on its scoring opportunities. Toronto's defense held firm in the closing minutes to preserve the shutout and secure the 2-0 victory. 

 

The result of the game was significant for both teams as they compete for Eastern Conference playoff positions. The Red Bulls entered the match holding a wild-card spot with 36 points and remained on 36 after the defeat. Toronto also reached 36 points with the victory, tightening the race for the postseason.  

 

The loss leaves New York needing stronger results in its remaining regular season matches to secure a playoff spot, and the schedule does not get any easier from here.  

 

The Red Bulls will look to put this loss behind them when they host Inter Miami CF next Saturday, while Toronto FC will travel to Columbus for its next match.

 

Niall Stavros can be reached at niall.stavros@student.shu.edu 

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