Emil Forsberg scored a brace to lead the New York Red Bulls to a 2-1 victory over visiting Toronto FC on Saturday in Harrison, N.J.
After scoring on a penalty kick in the 44th minute, Forsberg’s second goal broke a 1-1 tie in the 76th minute. Forsberg just barely remained onside in taking a canny pass from Felipe Carballo in the box, and the forward then buried the shot for the deciding goal.
The Red Bulls (2-1-2, 8 points) are unbeaten in their last four matches (2-0-2).
Deandre Kerr scored the only goal for Toronto FC, who are winless in five matches (0-4-1, 1 point) this season. Toronto is also winless in its last 12 regular-season meetings (0-9-3) with the Red Bulls, dating back to the 2019 campaign.
Late in the first half, Toronto defender Henry Wingo made contact with New York’s Raheem Edwards at the edge of the box, sending Edwards to the ground. A review was requested by video assistance officials, and the referee ruled the play a tripping foul after the second look.
With the penalty kick awarded, Forsberg converted the chance for the go-ahead goal. Forsberg is a perfect 6-for-6 on penalty kicks over his two seasons with the Red Bulls.
Kerr and Derrick Etienne Jr. entered the match as substitutes in the 56th minute, and the duo joined forces on the equalizer 14 minutes later. Etienne sent a tremendous cross into the box that Kerr headed over the line for his second goal in as many matches.
After Forsberg’s equalizer, the Red Bulls were reduced to 10 men three minutes into second-half stoppage time. Carballo was ejected after receiving a yellow card for delay of game, and arguing the call earned Carballo a quick second booking for the red card.
Toronto’s Sean Johnson made five saves, while New York’s Anthony Marcucci made one.
Lorenzo Insigne was a surprise inclusion in Toronto FC’s lineup, and the designated player played the full 90 minutes in his season debut. Insigne wasn’t selected for any of Toronto’s first four matches, amidst reports that the club is exploring transfer or trade possibilities.
–Field Level Media