For Toronto FC, May 11th didn't bring their best performance, and New York City's high efficiency led them to a 2-3 loss at BMO Field, where Federico Bernardeschi and Raoul Petettra scored the consolation goals for the hosts, but it wouldn't be enough to equalize.
A frustration that ended in chaos
Following a negative result for Toronto FC, at the end of the match, they were involved in several acts of aggression between both teams, with the entire situation spiraling out of control for the referee.
Altercation after the final whistle between Toronto FC and NYCFC.
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) May 12, 2024
Sean Johnson and Strahinja Tanasijević in the middle of it. pic.twitter.com/qsIRc9Oqhb
The match had a rather questionable development under the referee's direction, compounded by NYC FC's time-wasting tactics, which ultimately led to the game ending in a chaotic brawl, with TFC players visibly discontent with the referee's performance, and some protests spiraling out of control.
A detrimental expulsion for TFC
All of this was severely detrimental to Toronto FC. While the loss of the match had already been a heavy blow following their previous performances, where they had secured victories that truly boosted the team's morale, this encounter unleashed a surprising fury from the players. Federico Bernardeschi was sent off with a second yellow card after the match for his strong protests towards the referees.
Things got real ugly after the full-time whistle 😳
— Waking the Red (@WakingtheRed) May 12, 2024
The bad news is that Federico Bernardeschi was sent off. More disciplinary action coming from MLS, you’d think… #TFCLive | #NYCFC | #TORvNYCpic.twitter.com/ZZCJfhB03L
This results in a lack of order in terms of refereeing. While the head referee is expected to take control of the game and maintain a healthy environment during the match, questionable calls and TFC's frustration during the game led to a harsh clash at the end of the encounter.