Stephen Afrifa scores as Sporting Kansas City falls to Deportivo Toluca in Leagues Cup

Canadian-born Ghanaian winger Stephen Afrifa made an impact for Sporting Kansas City with a goal in their 2-1 defeat to Deportivo Toluca FC during the Leagues Cup 2024 group stage finale at Children’s Mercy Park on Monday.

Afrifa, who was named in the starting lineup and played for 60 minutes, scored a notable equalizer just before halftime, leveling the score at 1-1.

Despite Afrifa’s effort, Toluca secured the victory with goals from Jesús Angulo and Maximiliano Araujo.

Sporting Kansas City struggled to contain Toluca's dominant possession and attack, managing fewer shots on goal despite their home advantage.

The defeat leaves Toluca with a head-to-head record of two wins against Sporting Kansas City's two victories, with no draws between the teams.

However, Sporting Kansas City's performance in the group stage has been sufficient to advance them to the Leagues Cup knockout stage.

They will now face defending MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew in the Round of 32 on Friday at Lower.com Field.