Zambian international defender Aime Mabika was given a rare start for Toronto FC in a closely contested MLS match against FC Cincinnati on Sunday. Unfortunately, his presence in defense could not secure a victory as they lost 3-2. Mabika had not started a match for TFC since August 20 but had come on as a second-half substitute in their 3-0 defeat to New York City FC on September 24. His performance in that match was impressive enough to earn him a start against Cincinnati. Despite being two goals down, TFC managed to level the match at 2-2. However, they ultimately conceded a late goal, resulting in a 3-2 loss. Mabika joined TFC from Inter Miami in April and began his journey with the Canadian side on a positive note. He was a regular in the team until recently when he slipped down the pecking order and found himself on the bench. Nevertheless, Mabika's performance against Cincinnati suggests that he might be in contention to start again in TFC's upcoming league match away to Charlotte on Thursday. Mabika is hopeful that his display on Sunday was enough to convince coach Pat Noonan to provide him with more opportunities in the team.