TFC looks to make Toronto proud in CONCACAF final

Toronto FC was 4,000 kilometres away Monday when a rented van plowed into pedestrians with deadly results.

But coach Greg Vanney says the horrific attack was deeply felt by his team in Mexico as it prepared for Wednesday’s return leg of the CONCACAF Champions League final with CD Guadalajara, known as Chivas.

“I think our group, probably as much or more than any group I’ve ever been around, really genuinely loves where they are and loves Toronto and all it has to offer and its people,” the former U.S. international said. “There isn’t anybody on our team that isn’t super-happy and excited being in Toronto. And everyone feels safe.”

Captain Michael Bradley called Toronto “one of the best cities in the world.”

“We’re going to step on the field [Wednesday night] and play in a way where everybody back home in Toronto is proud,” the U.S. national team skipper said.

Vanney also hopes the MLS champions can give something back to the city when it looks to erase a 2-1 deficit from the first leg. Because of Chivas’ away goals, a 1-0 win won’t be enough for Toronto. TFC will need to win and score at least two goals on the night. A 2-1 victory, however, would send the game to extra time and possibly penalties.

“We’ve got to be smart,” Vanney said. “We can’t just give away goals. But at the same time, we know it’s incumbent upon us to go score at least two.”

TFC has a large contingent in Guadalajara, having sent 11 starters to Mexico late last week. All but two or three of the reserve squad Toronto fielded in a 5-1 loss in Houston on Saturday continued on to Mexico.

The team had 20 players in training Monday, allowing Vanney to essentially field two full squads in training.

Fullback Justin Morrow and defender Chris Mavinga flew in Tuesday afternoon. Morrow has been ruled out through injury. While Mavinga will undergo a fitness test, he is considered unlikely to take part in the game.