WASHINGTON — In an exciting season opener on Saturday night, Federico Bernardeschi netted a penalty kick in the 70th minute, helping Toronto FC secure a 2-2 draw against D.C. United.
The penalty was awarded after Richie Laryea was fouled by Brandon Servania, leading to Bernardeschi’s attempt from the spot. Last season, he finished strong, tallying eight goals and providing eight assists throughout the year.
This match marked a promising start for Robin Fraser, who was making his debut as head coach of Toronto FC, taking over from John Herdman. Herdman stepped down after a challenging season, where the team ended with a record of 11 wins, 19 losses, and 4 draws.
The game opened with a bang as Boris Enow scored his first professional goal just eight minutes in, giving D.C. United an early 1-0 advantage. Previously, Enow had made seven appearances for the club but hadn’t registered a goal.
Toronto quickly responded, leveling the match at 1-1 in the 28th minute, thanks to Jonathan Osorio’s unassisted goal. Osorio now holds impressive career stats with 49 goals and 52 assists in 250 starts and 303 total games played for the club.
However, D.C. United regained the lead in the 35th minute with a goal from Christian Benteke, who claimed the Golden Boot Award the previous season after netting 23 goals. The assist came from Jacob Murrell, who had a solid rookie season last year, contributing with one goal and three assists.
In his first start, D.C. United’s South Korean newcomer, Kim Joon-Hong, aged 21, made an impactful debut with five saves, including two crucial stops in the first half.
Toronto’s seasoned goalkeeper, Sean Johnson, 35, made one save as he kicked off his third season with the team.
Historically, D.C. United has the upper hand in their competitive series against Toronto, leading with a record of 18 wins, 12 losses, and 13 draws. As the club aims to end a playoff drought that has spanned five seasons, they are set to face Chicago in the Fire’s home opener next Saturday. Toronto will travel to Orlando City for their match on the same day.
