Grit in the Dying Seconds: TFC Steals the Canadian Classique
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A pair of stoppage-time goals and a gritty defensive stand propel Toronto FC to a stunning 2-1 victory over CF Montreal.
OPINION: This wasn't just about securing three points on a Saturday night; it was a statement. For too long, Toronto FC has lacked the killer instinct to close out the biggest games of the year, but in the dying seconds of the 39th edition of the 401 Derby, TFC finally found the grit to steal the Canadian Classique.
As Sportsnet first reported, Toronto FC secured a shocking 2-1 victory over CF Montreal on October 10, 2026, thanks to a pair of goals scored in second-half stoppage time. The late surge was fueled by strategic substitutions from head coach Robin Fraser, who brought Lewis Morgan and Djordje Mihailovic off the bench to provide the necessary attacking spark. Mihailovic, who has struggled with a red-card suspension and a series of injuries this season—including a nagging groin/pelvic issue and a hamstring injury—scored the game-winning goal.
Speaking to Sportsnet, Mihailovic described 2026 as one of the most difficult years of his life, noting that injuries had prevented him from finding a consistent rhythm. His return proved pivotal, as Toronto had dropped three consecutive matches prior to the Montreal clash while he was sidelined.
The victory was further defined by the resilience of the defense. Backup goalkeeper William Yarbrough was forced into action early after starter Luka Gavran suffered a leg injury. While Fraser noted that Gavran's injury was not serious, Yarbrough had to navigate his first appearance for the club since September 21, 2024, with the San Jose Earthquakes. Despite allowing a second-half goal to Daniel Rios, Yarbrough helped TFC improve their overall series record against Montreal to 18-14-7. Yarbrough told Sportsnet that in the context of a derby, the style of play is irrelevant as long as the team secures the three points.
Beyond the rivalry, the win provides a lifeline for Toronto (7-10-11) in their pursuit of the playoffs. Sportsnet reports that TFC is now within one point of New York City FC and Red Bull New York, the current holders of the Eastern Conference wild-card spots. With six games remaining on their schedule, Toronto's postseason hopes now hinge on the consistency Mihailovic believes the team must find to close out the season.