On Sunday, Toronto FC and Aime Mabika came up short in a dramatic 3-2 game against MLS log leaders Cincinnati.
The Canadian team suffered their 12th league loss in 13 games, and with only 22 points, they are still at the bottom of the standings.
With a well-executed goal at the 28-minute mark, Cincinnati forward Brandon Vazquez gave the visitors the lead in the game. As the goalkeeper’s shot rebounded, Vazquez capitalized on his advantageous placement to double Cincinnati’s lead.
Jonathan Osario of Toronto FC gave the hosts a boost with two goals just before halftime. Cincinnati, though, scored in the 72nd minute to deal Toronto’s bid for a comeback a fatal blow.
The victory was won by Aaron-Salem Boupendza after confusing Toronto FC’s defense. Zambian international Mabika was unable to match the striker from Cincinnati’s speed and complexity.
For Cincinnati’s second goal, Mabika also reacted slowly since the defender couldn’t clear his lines following the goalkeeper’s rebound. As a result, some Toronto FC supporters have blamed the imposing defense for their team’s loss.
@RATT_Enjoyer complained, “Aime Mabika might be the worst CB I’ve ever seen play in MLS. I’ve never, ever seen a guy operate on a level as low as he does.”
“Idk if Mabika doesn’t want to be here or just straight up sucks, but he’s so frustrating to watch, “@CowbellTML added.
@mark_it_sold also commented, “Pls, pls, pls, get Mabika off the field. He’s such a liability on D.”
It would be absurd to hold Mabika solely responsible for Toronto’s disaster-class performances, especially in light of the fact that he was the team’s most reliable defender when he had just joined from David Beckham’s Inter Miami in April.
The Chipolopolo Boy’s defender was also inactive last month as Toronto allowed nine goals in only three games.
One Toronto FC fan, @A_Schaffner89, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Incredible how Mabika’s form has gone south since the early weeks of the season. But to be fair, it’s not just him. The entire defensive structure of TFC’s lineup is brittle and porous at the same time.”
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In a post-match interview, Mabika expressed disappointment over Toronto FC’s home loss to Cincinnati, saying, “It’s definitely not nice to see someone celebrate on your field.”
