Toronto will assess the fitness of Bradley and Altidore, both of whom have been away on international duty. Hagglund and Cheyrou remain absentees for the hosts, who are expected to use the same 3 man defence. A change in the right wing back role is possible with Beitashour now available. Vazquez is a crucial player in midfield and is capable of creating chances for Giovinco and Altidore. The hosts are big favourites for this match, with a handicap of -1.25 to overcome. The handicap is justified as Toronto sit top of the Eastern Conference and are unbeaten in 9 league games. Yet to lose in front of their own supporters this season, Toronto will be expecting all 3 points and anything less would be viewed as a disappointment. Confidence high within the team. The 3 goals line reflects the attacking potential in the home side, who are the highest scorers in the league. Toronto have played in an attacking style this season, with the wing backs advanced. Should Toronto take the lead they will remain on the front foot and look for more goals, this makes the over 3 goals line appealing. Toronto will remain calm even if they concede the opening goal.
SJ Earthquakes are forced to make a change with Alashe suspended, this could result in Bernardez returning to the side. The visitors still have doubts over the availability of Jungwirth and Lima but the return of Godoy from suspension strengthens the midfield. Going forward, Urena has the ability to run in behind and is supported by Wondolowski, who sits deeper and makes well-timed runs. SJ Earthquakes are big outsiders for this match, the handicap of +1.25 is justified as they face an opponent who have yet to lose at home this season. The visitors have a lot to play as they could still finish in the play-off positions, motivation is high within the team as they look to become the first side to win at BMO Field this season. Won just 1 of last 7 away games, confidence affected. The visitors are expected to defend deep without the ball, the longer the away side stays in the contest the more confident the players will get. San Jose will aim to make the game a tight contest, the under 3 goals line gives them a greater chance of success. An early goal conceded would force San Jose to change their plans and take more risks on the ball, which leaves them more vulnerable.
Verdict & Prediction
Toronto sit comfortably at the top of the Eastern Conference and are unbeaten in their last 9 league matches. The confidence within the team is superb at the moment, the players are determined to maintain this excellent run of form and want to go one step further than last season. The hosts have yet to taste defeat in front of their own supporters this season, so playing at BMO Field is a big advantage for Toronto. The players speak regularly about the boost they get when playing in front of their fans, who create an intense atmosphere which affects the opposition.
Prediction: FC Toronto -1.25 Asian Handicap
Odds: 1.76 Pinnacle
Another MLS betting preview for tonight: DC United v Orlando City
