3 reasons why NYCFC must desperately beat Toronto FC on the road | OneFootball

New York City FC has been struggling over the last month or so. With the exception of the loss to Atlanta United FC, in which the Pigeons scored three times, the team has scored one or no goals in four of their last five matches. The players could have a decent offensive effort, but are then lackluster in finishing their chances.

In addition, NYCFC is also 1-3-1 in the last five fixtures, with a 3-4-2 overall record. Therefore, the upcoming road game against Toronto FC has become extremely critical. The Boys in Blue may struggle on the road, but they desperately need to win on Saturday.

It is not just about the three points. There are other reasons the Bronx side must find a way to earn all three points. Here are three reasons why NYCFC must beat Toronto FC.

3 reasons NYCFC must win in Toronto

3. NYCFC needs the three points

The obvious reason NYCFC must win is that the team needs three points. The Boys in Blue have only 11 points so far this season and sit in tenth place in the Eastern Conference table. A win, as long as other matches go their way, could see them jump to sixth place. At the very least, three points would hopefully put them in a playoff spot, which is where they want to be throughout the campaign.

Plus, May will be extremely busy for NYCFC. They will play eight games, with seven of them against their fellow Major League Soccer teams. If the Bronx side moves on in the U.S. Open Cup, then they will play nine matches. Of the seven MLS ones, three sides have more points than them. However, those who sit below are still close to the Pigeons. As such, one cannot assume NYCFC will win at least half of their games.

Sure, five fixtures will be at home, but the issue is the number of games in a short period. There are also questions about the team's depth. That is why NYCFC must earn all three points against Toronto.

2. Winning will boost the players' confidence

After the last few games, the Pigeons could use a confidence boost. Winning on the road, regardless of the fact that Toronto is in 14th place, would do that. NYCFC needs a game in which they are successful. Ideally, they will have a good performance. However, if there are issues, and they still win, then that could spark something in the team.

The attackers could really use a spark of confidence. Alonso Martínez is the only consistent scorer, so getting others on the scoresheet would be extremely beneficial for NYCFC.

1. A loss will put Pascal Jansen front and center for NYCFC

The pressure to win will be felt by everyone, including Pascal Jansen. The head coach, who has had plenty of success at his past spots, knows it is vital to get his team back on track. He also knows what not winning will do.

While some fans are willing to give him time, others are not patient due to the last few seasons that saw NYCFC struggle. A loss in Toronto would put Jansen front and center and on the hot seat. No, the club would not consider sacking him so early, especially with the expected plan to bring in some bigger signings this summer. But he would be put on the supporters' hot seat, where he will be watched very closely if the Boys in Blue continue to struggle and not get the desired results.

More importantly, it would look bad on Jansen if he cannot lead NYCFC to beat a not-so-great Toronto side. That is why the Pigeons must win this weekend.