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The Impact are in the playoffs, off a goal delivered by Ignacio Piatti, while Montréal's native son Mauro Biello watches 20 years of dedication unfold. Ladies and gentlemen, there is a single match left to play, and if it's even half as interesting as last week's, we're going to be in for the ride of a lifetime.
What better way to spend a Sunday night that watching Montréal play arch-rivals and perpetual under performers, Toronto FC.
What to Expect?
TFC head coach, Greg Vanney, has done his best to get under Drogba's skin, and probably failed. Giovinco will attempt to push Toronto to the brink, and Bradley will marshal the midfield. It will be the usual TFC fun and games. The bigger influence will be Ignacio Piatti and Laurent Ciman, who are both in shape and on an impressive run of form lately. Don't be surprised if both put in impressive appearances against rivals from down the Saint-Laurent. Our midfield is deeper than theirs, with the likes of Duka, Mapp, Tissot and Oduro all available to start against an often docile Toronto back-line.
Where can I watch?
Stade Saputo, preferably. RDS and TSN will air the match on the télé, and TSN 690 on the radio (en Anglais).
What's on the line?
Both teams have already clinched a playoff berth, and will appear in the post-season. The only determinant will be if they appear once, or twice before advancing or elimination. If Toronto win, they can take 2nd place and guarantee themselves a spot in the final 4. Likewise for Montréal. Both teams will be vying for home field advantage in the playoffs - especially Montréal after our disastrous 2013 appearance.
Probable Starting XI
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Evan Bush
Nigel Reo-Coker, Hassoun Camara, Laurent Ciman, Ambroise Oyongo
Marco Donadel
Justin Mapp, Ignacio Piatti, Callum Mallace, Dilly Duka
Didier Drogba
Keys to Victory
Rely on the strength of the midfield, and you'll be able to frustrate a fledgling Toronto backline. Giovinco, Bradley and Altidore will always be a threat, but if you can starve them of service - or at least limit their ability to coordinate with each other - and you can prevent any major Toronto attacks.
Use speed along the wings (Oduro and Duka) to continually press for advantage, and ensure that Toronto's back line does not get too far up the pitch and initiate any counter attacks. Remember, Mauro Biello has literally been awaiting a sold out crowd, on decision day, where he is the head coach of a team of stars, for years. This is his moment. We all get to watch it unfold.