SOCCER: Daniel Salloi scores late as Toronto FC blank FC Cincinnati

Daniel Salloi found the back of the net with a sharp dribble in the 86th minute to break a scoreless tie, and his goal stood as the game-winner as Toronto FC defeated host FC Cincinnati 1-0 on Sunday.

Toronto (1-2-0, 3 points) struggled offensively for most of the match but increased pressure on Cincinnati’s defense when it mattered most. Salloi’s strike marked his first goal of the season and proved decisive.

Playing their third consecutive road match to start the season, Toronto FC relied on grit and teamwork. Goalkeeper Luka Gavran made two crucial saves and received strong support from a defensive line that tallied 19 clearances.

FC Cincinnati (1-2-0, 3 points) had several chances to equalize but failed to capitalize. The home side outshot Toronto 15-2 and controlled possession 55.8% to 44.2%.

Evander, last season’s top scorer, came closest to leveling the score in the 92nd minute, but his effort sailed over the crossbar into the Cincinnati supporters’ section. Overall, Cincinnati managed only 12 clearances while allowing seven shots on goal.

Goalkeeper Roman Celentano recorded six saves, including a key stop in the 84th minute when he deflected a Deandre Kerr attempt over the net. Celentano, however, could not prevent Salloi’s decisive strike a minute later.

The match was physical throughout, with 25 fouls and two yellow cards for each side. Several questionable officiating decisions in the first half frustrated the home crowd and contributed to extended stoppages, resulting in 11 combined minutes of added time—four in the first half and seven in the second.

Toronto FC will look to carry this momentum into their next fixture, while Cincinnati will aim to bounce back on home turf.

—Field Level Media/Reuters