TFC, CF Montreal face off knowing both could be eliminated from playoff contention

TORONTO — Toronto FC and CF Montreal face off Saturday knowing both could be mathematically eliminated from MLS playoff contention by end of day.

The two rivals stand 12th and 13th in the Eastern Conference with Toronto (5-13-9) one point ahead of Montreal (5-15-8).

The ninth-place New York Red Bulls currently occupy the last playoff spot in the East, 15 points above TFC.

Montreal will be eliminated with a loss or draw at BMO Field or a Red Bulls win over visiting Columbus. A Montreal win coupled with a Red Bulls victory would end TFC's playoff hopes.

So wins by the Red Bulls and Montreal would leave both Canadians teams on the post-season sidelines.

TFC has not made the playoffs since 2020. Montreal reached the post-season last year for the first time since 2022 but lost a penalty sh