FanSided MLS
·21 November 2024
FanSided MLS
·21 November 2024
The final match at BMO Field in 2024 was a bittersweet one for Toronto FC. Despite significant effort from the players and a more positive season under John Herdman compared to 2023, the team ultimately fell short of the expectations set by the fans. Toronto FC showed improvement throughout the year, but their performance did not meet the high hopes of supporters.
On a brighter note, the last match at BMO Field in 2024 saw Canada’s national team deliver a fantastic performance. In the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Nations League, Canada triumphed 3-0 against Suriname, securing their spot in the semifinals.
This convincing victory provided fans with an exciting display of top-level football and showcased the team’s strength and skill. Canada’s next challenge will come in March 2025, when they face Mexico in the semifinals, a highly anticipated match.
While the match itself was a success for Canada, attendance was a major disappointment. The Canadian Football Federation reported that only around 12,000 tickets were sold for the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal, despite the expectation of a larger crowd.
This was particularly concerning given that BMO Field has a capacity of 30,000 seats. There have been ongoing rumors about the possibility of expanding and renovating the stadium in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. This would be a positive step for growing the sport in Canada and attracting more fans to both national team and Toronto FC matches. Nonetheless, the year ended with a positive note for the Canadian team, as they clinched a well-deserved victory over Suriname.
Looking forward, BMO Field’s future seems promising. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, there are strong hopes for upgrades and expansions to the stadium. The potential renovation could help bring in larger crowds, boosting the excitement for both Toronto FC matches and Canada’s national team games.
Such developments would not only improve the fan experience but also contribute to growing soccer’s popularity in Canada. As the nation prepares to host the world’s biggest football tournament, the demand for high-quality stadiums and memorable fan experiences will only increase, making the future of BMO Field crucial to Canadian soccer's continued progress.