Columbus Crew B and Toronto FC II Play Out Entertaining 2-2 Draw in MLS Next Pro

MLS Next Pro action on May 25, 2026 saw Columbus Crew B and Toronto FC II battle to a 2-2 draw at Historic Crew Stadium. Both sides showcased attacking flair but were also left to rue missed chances in a match that had significant implications for the Eastern Conference standings.

Match Overview

The home side, Columbus Crew B, started brightly and took the lead through a well-struck volley from midfielder Juan Pablo Reyes in the 22nd minute. Toronto FC II responded with a patient build-up, equalizing before halftime through a clinical finish from winger Liam Wilson. The second half was a frenetic affair, with Columbus regaining the lead only for Toronto to snatch a point with a late penalty.

Key Moments

• 22' - Goal Columbus: Juan Pablo Reyes connects with a half-volley after a corner is cleared to the edge of the box.
• 41' - Goal Toronto: Liam Wilson cuts inside from the right and slots a left-footed shot past the Columbus goalkeeper.
• 63' - Goal Columbus: Substitute forward Aidan Murphy taps in a rebound after Toronto goalkeeper Matt Ryan spills a cross.
• 86' - Goal Toronto (Penalty): Defender Carlos Rodriguez is adjudged to have handled the ball in the box, and striker Jordan Miller converts the spot kick low to the left.

Tactical Story

Columbus Crew B deployed a 4-3-3 formation with high wing backs looking to stretch Toronto’s defense. Toronto FC II countered with a 3-5-2, aiming to dominate midfield and create overloads in central areas. The game was played at a high tempo, with both goalkeepers forced into important saves. Toronto’s physical approach in the second half unsettled Columbus’s rhythm, leading to the decisive penalty.

Standout Players

• Juan Pablo Reyes (Columbus): Opened the scoring and was a constant creative outlet, completing 89% of his passes.
• Liam Wilson (Toronto): Scored a brilliant equalizer and provided width on the right, causing Columbus problems throughout.

Impact on the Table

Columbus Crew B remain in fifth place in the MLS Next Pro Eastern Conference, now three points behind the playoff spots. Toronto FC II rise to seventh, keeping pace in the crowded mid-table race. The result extends Columbus’s winless run to three games, while Toronto extends their unbeaten streak to four.