Toronto FC head coach John Herdman couldn’t hide his satisfaction after witnessing Cashius Mailula score his first goal for the club on Thursday morning.

Mailula was among the scorers in Toronto’s dominant 5-0 victory over League1 Ontario champions Simcoe County Rovers FC in the Canadian Championship preliminary round at BMO Field. The former Sundowns forward displayed impressive technique, bending his body to slot home the team’s second goal in his first start since joining during the offseason.

Herdman acknowledged Mailula’s initial adjustment period, attributing it to adapting from a different league (PSL) in South Africa. Limited playing time (only 11 minutes in MLS) reflects Herdman prioritizing other forwards, including established names like Jonathan Osorio, Lorenzo Insigne, and Federico Bernardeschi.

“I’m really happy he got his goal,” Herdman said. “He’s shown great patience. With games coming just once a week and players like Osorio, Insigne, and Bernardeschi occupying the forward areas, it’s challenging for Cassius to get regular minutes.”

The English manager confirmed Insigne and Bernardeschi, both formerly of Juventus, are currently ahead of Mailula in the pecking order.

“He’s a young player adapting to a new league with different styles and standards,” Herdman explained. “He’s working hard, maintaining a positive attitude – these are qualities that build resilience in MLS.”

Herdman acknowledged that while this season might not be Mailula’s breakout year, continued focus and hard work could change that. “He has the potential, and if he keeps doing what he’s doing, he’ll get his chance.”

Toronto now sets its sights on a clash with Orlando City SC in Florida this weekend. Following that, they’ll face the winner of the upcoming preliminary round matchup between HFX Wanderers FC (Canadian Premier League) and CS Saint-Laurent (League1 Quebec). The two-legged Canadian Championship quarterfinals are scheduled for next month.

Picture courtesy of Toronto