The opening half saw both sides create chances, but New York City eventually broke through.
In the 41st minute, Andrés Perea put NYCFC ahead after receiving a pass from Nico Fernández Mercau. Montréal goalkeeper Samsy Keita failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing Fernández Mercau to win it back and find Perea inside the box. The midfielder calmly finished to give the hosts a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.
NYCFC carried its lead into the second half and looked to extend its advantage. However, chances from Hannes Wolf, Luighi and other attackers failed to find the back of the net.
Matt Freese also played a key role in keeping Montréal off the scoreboard, making a crucial save against Alexis Sánchez as the visitors searched for an equalizer.
As the clock approached 90 minutes, NYCFC appeared close to securing a crucial three points. But Montréal had other plans.
In the 92nd minute, Daniel Ríos found the equalizer, finishing a deflected cross into the top corner past Freese. The late goal silenced the home crowd and shifted the momentum in Montréal's favor.