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Toronto FC took a huge step forward as the MLS-side handed Club América a 3-1 defeat in their CONCACAF Champions League Semifinal first leg.
Toronto are unlikely take an easy ride at the Estadio Azteca, but this forces las Águilas to win by at least a difference of two goals in the second leg to have any chance of making the Final.
Less than 10 minutes had elapsed when a penalty was called for an apparent tackle on Sebastian Giovinco. Despite a bit of controversy, Giovinco put his spot kick into the back of the net to give his side the early lead.
Andres Ibargüen gave the visitors all the encouragement they needed moments later when he dribbled his way past several Toronto defenders to slot home a crucial Club América away goal.
In the 44th minute, Toronto burst forward again, and in a two-on-two, Jozy Altidore made the best out the space given to smash in a 2-1 lead at the break.
For all their dominance, Toronto’s greatest threat in the second half continued to be in transition, and for the third time in the game, they made América pay. Ashtone Morgan bested his marker to get in front of a Auro cross and put the final score at 3-1.
Both teams will meet again next Tuesday at the Estadio Azteca.