Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew: What you need to know

Times are tough for Toronto FC and they're not going to get any easier this weekend. 

TFC are riding a five-game losing streak and are winless in their last eight (six losses). With just one win in their previous 11 outings, the Reds are trending in the wrong direction and slipping down the table in the Eastern Conference.  

A visit to the Columbus Crew, the reigning MLS Cup champions, could compound the Reds' miseries. But it's also an opportunity for TFC to start building some momentum in an attempt to get their campaign back on track. 

“It’s a critical part of the season. Players I think at this point understand how important every game is,” defender Aimé Mabika said. 

Here’s what you need to know about Saturday's match between Toronto and Columbus at Lower.com Field (7:30 p.m. ET/Apple TV & TSN).