Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Prediction, Preview, Team News and Lineups 16.08.2025
Calendar icon Published 15 Aug 20:23

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Prediction, Preview, Team News and Lineups 16.08.2025

Juan Pablo Aravena Juan Pablo Aravena
Odds via Tonybet
Toronto FC vs Columbus CrewSaturday, August 16, 2025, 7:30 PM EDT
Toronto FC odds +260
Columbus Crew odds -110
Draw+260
Both teams to scoreYes -167, No +119 

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Preview and Team News

Toronto FC Team News

Toronto FC head into this clash against Columbus looking to find a spark that can get them going, as they’re currently riding a three-match winless skid in MLS following their recent 1-1 away draw at Philadelphia Union. 

With only one win over their last five outings and two across their previous 10 in the league, it’s clear that TFC have delivered another subpar campaign in 2025.

It’s not as if the squad have simply been unlucky, as they’ve also posted a lower xG than their opponents in those three straight fixtures without a win. The addition of star playmaker Djordje Mihailovic, who joined Toronto via trade from the Colorado Rapids, should boost the team’s play in the final third. However, this is a rebuilding roster, especially after the departures of Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi.

From a personnel standpoint, the lack of depth will once again complicate matters for Toronto. Starting goalkeeper Sean Johnson will be a game-time call due to a concussion, while defenders Nicksoen Gomis and Zane Monlouis have already been ruled out. Henry Wingo is also sidelined, so the Reds will have a tough time assembling a reliable, competitive defence for this matchup.

Toronto FC predicted lineup vs Columbus Crew (4-3-3): Gavran; Laryea, Rosted, Long, Petretta; Coello, Flores, Osorio; Corbeanu, Brynhildsen, Mihailovic.

Columbus Crew Team News

The Crew resume their MLS campaign after snatching two wins and a loss in the 2025 Leagues Cup – they defeated Puebla and Club León but fell to Toluca in a penalty shootout. 

Their performances against three solid Liga MX sides confirmed their status as one of the best teams in MLS this season. Under the tutelage of Wilfred Nancy, Columbus currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference standings.

While they’ve lost two of their last three league outings, the losses came against two of the best squads in the East: Nashville SC and Orlando City SC. 

Nancy’s men should be the odds-on favourites ahead of this match, but this is far from being a guaranteed win. After all, the Crew have been far from reliable away from home with only one win in their last five on the road.

Columbus will be able to field a relatively strong eleven for this fixture, with key players such as Darlington Nagbe, Diego Rossi, and Dániel Gazdag leading the way behind striker Jacen Russell-Rowe. 

The lone absence is Rudy Camacho due to a pelvic injury, while Nicholas Hagen (thigh) and Mohamed Farsi (pelvis) are game-time calls. Neither of the three players would start even if healthy.

Columbus Crew predicted lineup vs Toronto FC (3-4-2-1): Schulte; Zawadski, Amundsen, Moreira; Herrera, Chambost, Nagbe, Arfsten; Gazdag, Rossi; Russell-Rowe.

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Main Match Info

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Prediction, Odds

Toronto are in dire need of a bounce-back performance, as they must start winning to have a shot at even sniffing a postseason berth. 

However, the Reds have lost more than half of their league matches this season and aren’t exactly the most reliable team right now. As if their recent form wasn’t enough of an issue, they’re also at a psychological disadvantage when facing the Crew.

That’s because TFC haven’t defeated Columbus since the 2021 MLS season, going D1, L6 in the seven league meetings since. Nancy’s men have proven to be the better squad on both sides of the ball this term. 

Even though Toronto might find the back of the net aided by the support of their fans, this is a game the Crew should be able to win with relative ease.

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew Betting Tip

The Crew have found the back of the net twice or more in seven of their previous eight matches against Toronto FC across all competitions, including friendlies. There’s little evidence to suggest that trend is going to change here. 

With a prolific attack that averages 1.64 goals per game and the recent head-to-head history in their favour, the Crew should be able to score at least twice this time as well.

There’s also a tactical basis for expecting Columbus’s attack to thrive. Gazdag, Rossi, and Russell-Rowe have combined for 22 goals and 10 assists this season, and very few trios in the league have been as prolific as they have. 

Toronto have struggled against potent offences, and the visitors should take advantage of that to find the back of the net early.

Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew: Where to Watch (Canada) 

Disclaimer: The content provided on this page, including all soccer predictions, odds, and related information, is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy and timeliness, we do not guarantee the correctness or reliability of any predictions, data, or information presented here. 

Responsible Betting: Betting should be fun and enjoyable, not a solution to financial problems. Always gamble within your means. The outcomes of sporting events are unpredictable, and there is always a risk of losing your stake. Only bet with money you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek help from a professional organization. For support, visit https://canadasafetycouncil.org/gambling-addiction/

Cookie Notice

This site uses cookies. Find out more about use of cookies in our privacy policy.

Cookie Policy