CF Montreal secured a late draw against New York City Football Club (NYCFC) on Saturday, significantly impacting NYCFC’s hopes of reaching the Major League Soccer playoffs. Daniel Rios scored a stoppage-time equalizer two minutes into the second half of added time, leveling the match and contributing to NYCFC’s continued struggle to secure a postseason berth.

The match took place on Saturday, during which NYCFC held a record of 9 wins, 12 losses, and 12 draws, accumulating 39 points. Earlier in the day, Columbus defeated Dallas, a result that mathematically eliminated NYCFC from playoff contention despite their efforts to maintain their standing.

Montreal’s tying goal came following a costly error by NYCFC midfielder James Sands. Attempting to advance the ball himself rather than pass, Sands lost possession near the attacking end. Luca Petrasso quickly recovered the ball and delivered a precise pass along the end line to Rios. The forward then maneuvered past a defending player and struck a shot into the top left corner of the net, beating goalkeeper Matt Freese. This marked Rios’ seventh goal of the season.

Following the equalizer, NYCFC continued to push for a winning goal. Agustin Ojeda generated two notable opportunities but was denied in the immediate moments after the equalizer. Keaton Parks’ attempt was blocked by Montreal defender Brandon Craig in the seventh minute of stoppage time, and Nicolas Fernandez Mercau was also halted in the ninth minute as the match concluded.

The draw maintained CF Montreal’s position in the standings while confirming NYCFC’s playoff elimination, marking a disappointing end to the season for the New York-based club.