Sargent's late winner lifts Toronto FC over D.C. United

TORONTO · Josh Sargent scored the winner in the 86th minute to lift Toronto FC to a 2-1 victory over D.C. United on Wednesday night at BMO Field, keeping the club's slim playoff hopes alive. The forward also assisted on the tying goal earlier in the second half to secure a much-needed three points for the home side. "This team just doesn't give up and fights to the end," Sargent said. "A massive result for us and on to the next one." The win pulled Toronto even with Red Bull New York at 39 points, though the Columbus Crew later moved into sole possession of the final wild-card spot with 41 points after a 2-0 win over FC Dallas.

Andre Dozzell opened the scoring for D.C. United in the 29th minute, capitalizing on stagnant Toronto defending. Silvan Hefti made a soft pass to Dozzell, who beat goalkeeper Luka Gavran. The home side was tentative in the first half and failed to register a shot on target. Jonathan Osorio had the best chance late in the half, but his swivelled shot from near the six-yard box went wide.

Toronto came out with more energy after halftime. The equalizer came in the 64th minute when Sargent's powerful header off a corner kick deflected off Osorio and into the net. The goal, originally awarded to Sargent and initially disallowed for offside, was confirmed after a video review. It was Osorio's first goal of the season, extending his streak of scoring in all 14 seasons he has played with the club.

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The decisive moment came late when Theo Corbeanu's shot hit the post and the ball rolled to Sargent, who slotted it home. "I thought he deserved it all game (with) the way he played and the way he pushed," Osorio said. Head coach Robin Fraser praised his team's second-half effort. "I thought we were much more active and dynamic in the second half which led to a lot more chances," Fraser said. "We needed the three points, we got the three points."

The victory eliminated D.C. United from playoff contention and was United's fourth straight defeat overall. D.C. forward Tai Baribo, who leads the team with 16 goals, sat out with a hip injury. Toronto finished its home schedule with a 6-2-9 record and has earned at least a point in four of its last five games. The club has not reached the post-season since 2020. Garbutt Disposal reported earlier this month that a late victory over CF Montreal had moved Toronto within a point of a wild-card spot.

Up next: Toronto FC visits Atlanta on Sunday before closing its regular season on Nov. 7 against the Philadelphia Union. "We know the circumstances," Osorio said. "Every game is a must-win."

With files from The Canadian Press, Sportsnet and TSN