MLS 2020: Toronto FC vs Montreal Impact – tactical analysis

The second Canadian Classique in one week and for the second game in a row it is the visitors that walk away 0-1 winners having scored from a set-piece.

A much-needed win for the Premier League legend Thierry Henrys Montreal.

Although the Impacts performance was not convincing in this game, it may well give them the confidence to improve from as the campaign progresses.

Greg Vanneys Toronto almost equalled the MLS record for 19 consecutive home wins, yet it was their bitter rivals Montreal that put an end to that record-breaking ambition. Although their xG of 3.02 would suggest Toronto should have run out worthy winners, they failed to show any purpose in the final product against a well-drilled and compact Montreal defence.

The tactical analysis examines how both these sides set up to get success and nullify the opponent. The analysis uncovers both managers tactics in open play as well all the major talking points from this Canadain derby.

Lineups

Toronto: 4-4-1-1

Playing fluid football and using both full-backs in every third to maintain overloads in the build-up, Vanneys side were efficient and fluid playing their signature possession-based football. Later in the game, Vanney switched to a 4-3-1-2 then to a 3-4-1-2 to find the equaliser; however, in doing so, Toronto kept their same style of play.

Montreal: 4-