Reports all around the Major League Soccer suggest that the 2012 schedule has essentially been finalized and is expected to be released later this week. Apparently, Canadian Soccer News has gotten their hands on a leaked copy of Toronto FC's schedule which sheds some semblance of light on other parts of the schedule.
The most notable thing about the schedule is that Toronto FC will apparently have a bye during First Kick. At least one team was destined to have that bye, as there are 19 teams, but that it's Toronto FC suggests that maybe MLS is having second thoughts about forcing teams playing in CONCACAF Champions League to partake in the opening weekend.
Toronto FC is scheduled to visit the Seattle Sounders on March 17, just three days after both teams are scheduled to play the second legs of their CCL quarterfinals. If the Sounders are forced to play during First Kick, that would be their fourth match in 11 days while TFC would be playing for just the third time. It would make more sense to give both the Sounders and LA Galaxy opening weekend off in order to provide more competitive fairness.
It was also revealed by CSN that the Voyageurs' Cup will retain its tournament format with Toronto FC most likely hosting FC Edmonton in the first round. With the leaked schedule suggesting TFC will host their only game against the Vancouver Whitecaps on Aug. 8, that would mean no visit to Vancouver in 2012.
For the latest updates on the 2012 MLS schedule, be sure to follow this StoryStream.
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2012 MLS Schedule: Toronto FC Will Reportedly Get First Week Off
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