Catastrophic. CF Montreal not only lost 2-1 against the Columbus Crew, but the victory of the New York Red Bulls, at the very last moment, knocked them out of the playoff picture.
We monitored three other matches on this decisive day in MLS. The results seemed to favor CF Montreal. When the final whistle blew in Columbus, he was qualified.
A few minutes later, the Red Bulls won a penalty in Nashville. Tolkin converted it, in the 94th. New York’s victory took Montreal out of the playoff picture.
Yes, it’s heartbreaking. The defeat in Columbus was predictable, but the Montrealers’ performance was honorable. In particular that of Joel Waterman, who seemed invested with a mission throughout the meeting, by multiplying the good blocks in defense.
Of course, the Crew dominated the debate. This was to be expected. This is how Wilfried Nancy’s team works, especially at home. But against all odds, Montreal struck first.
In the 7th minute, Nathan Saliba sent a long, tasty pass to Zachary Brault-Guillard, who connected with the ball in the box. The Quebecer had free rein to simply pass to Sunusi Ibrahim on his left. He threaded the needle into an open net.
The match resumed the same pace afterwards, with an enterprising Crew, and Montreal on the defensive. The Bleu-blanc-noir lasted for 10 minutes. In the 17th minute, Cucho Hernández continued his current good form by curling a very nice shot to tie the game. The MLS star even took the liberty of taunting the Montreal bench in celebration.
Returning from the locker room, the Crew picked up where they left off. Darlington Nagbe gave the locals the lead in the 50th with a beautiful goal from the edge of the area.
The match was subsequently split. Montreal had a little more possession, Jonathan Sirois made some key – and spectacular – saves, but the damage was done.
CF Montreal therefore ends its season in tenth position in the standings.
More details will follow.
