Martínez and Freese Lead NYCFC to Narrow Victory Over Toronto

TORONTO — Alonso Martínez scored a crucial second-half penalty kick, leading New York City FC to a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC on Saturday.

The decisive moment came in the 64th minute when Toronto midfielder Kosi Thompson fouled Martínez inside the box. Martínez stepped up and delivered a right-footed shot to the back left corner, outmaneuvering diving Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson. The goal marked Martínez’s sixth of the season and his 22nd in just 38 appearances for NYCFC.

In addition to Martínez’s performance, goalkeeper Matt Freese played a significant role, finishing the match with one save and earning his third clean sheet of the season. NYCFC improved to a 4-4-2 record, recovering from a streak where they had lost three out of their previous four matches.

Toronto FC, now at 1-5-4, had ended an eight-match winless streak last week with a win against Real Salt Lake. Johnson, in goal for Toronto, managed to save two shots during the match but could not prevent the penalty goal.

Toronto will look to bounce back when they host the New England Revolution next Saturday, while NYCFC prepares to face FC Cincinnati at home on May 4.