MLS Review: Giovinco brace inspires Toronto, Villa scores but NYC lose

Sebastian Giovinco was at his brilliant best in Toronto FC’s victory at Orlando City, while David Villa was unable to prevent defeat for New York City.

Former Juventus forward Giovinco scored twice, including a stunning second-half free-kick, and set up another as Toronto upstaged Orlando 3-1 in MLS on Wednesday.

High-flying Toronto made a fine start away at Orlando City Stadium, United States international Jozy Altidore breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute.

Giovinco played through Altidore, who coolly slotted the ball underneath Orlando goalkeeper Joe Bendick.

Simply stunning from Sebastian Giovinco. #ORLvTOR https://t.co/4ZM0nQAgqq

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

Toronto doubled their lead within a minute of the second half when Altidore turned provider, this time unselfishly squaring the ball to Giovinco.

Kaka assisted Carlos Rivas just past the hour-mark as fifth-placed Orlando pulled a goal back but Giovinco’s set-piece in the 65th minute sealed the points.

Toronto are now level on points with Chicago Fire atop the Eastern Conference following the latter’s 2-2 draw at Portland Timbers.

Spain’s all-time leading scorer Villa was on target in New York City’s 3-2 loss away to Vancouver Whitecaps.

Villa put New York – third in the east – ahead from the penalty spot in the 40th minute after Maxime Chanot cancelled out Fredy Montero’s early opener.

HT: @Guaje7Villa calmly slots home the penalty to give @NYCFC two goals in six minutes and the lead.#VANvNYC https://t.co/SiAS26N6WK

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

However, the Whitecaps scored two unanswered goals in the second half to snap New York’s four-game winning streak.

Gonzalo Veron’s 90th-minute goal gave New York Red Bulls a 3-2 win over New England Revolution, while Houston Dynamo accounted for Montreal Impact 3-1.