Atlético Ottawa secured their inaugural Canadian Premier League championship on Sunday night by defeating Calgary’s Cavalry FC 2-1 in a thrilling match played amidst a heavy November snowstorm. David Rodriguez emerged as the hero, scoring two crucial goals, including a spectacular bicycle kick dubbed “the icicle kick” due to the wintry conditions.
The game-winning goal came in the 106th minute after the pitch was cleared of snow following a tie at the end of regular time. Rodriguez expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support and described the experience as “amazing.” The match, delayed due to the snow, saw both teams battling not just each other but also the challenging weather conditions.
Despite the bitter cold, over 13,000 enthusiastic soccer fans braved the elements to witness the historic event. Fans like Jacinthe Duval embraced the unique experience, staying warm by dancing along with the crowd. The snow-covered pitch posed challenges for both teams, with Rodriguez’s brilliance ultimately tipping the scales in Ottawa’s favor.
Calgary initially took the lead with a penalty kick, but Ottawa quickly equalized through Rodriguez’s acrobatic goal. As the snow impeded play throughout the evening, crews worked tirelessly to clear the field. In extra time, Rodriguez sealed the victory with a well-placed shot past the Cavalry goalkeeper, securing Ottawa’s first CPL title.
The elated home crowd erupted in celebration as Atlético Ottawa lifted the North Star Cup. Players like Sam Salter and goalkeeper Nathan Ingham praised the fans for their unwavering support and resilience. Ingham emphasized the team’s determination to succeed under any circumstances and expressed immense joy at bringing the trophy home to the dedicated supporters. This triumph marked a significant milestone for Atlético Ottawa, who had previously fallen short in the 2022 final.
Cavalry FC, the defending champions, put up a valiant effort but fell short in their quest for back-to-back titles. The unforgettable match will be etched in the memories of players and fans alike, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of Canadian soccer.
