Atlético Ottawa secured their first-ever Canadian Premier League championship on Sunday night by defeating Calgary’s Cavalry FC with a 2-1 victory in a memorable November snowstorm. The game-winning goal was scored by David Rodriguez in the 106th minute, his second goal of the night. The first goal, a remarkable bicycle kick in wintry conditions, was fondly dubbed “the icicle kick” by fans.
Rodriguez described the experience as “amazing” and expressed gratitude to the fans. The match endured challenging weather conditions, leading to a delayed kickoff as stadium crews worked persistently to clear the pitch from snow using leaf blowers and shovels.
Despite the bitter cold, over 13,000 dedicated soccer fans attended the match and stayed until the end. Many spectators embraced the unique experience, with one fan mentioning that dressing warmly and joining the crowd in dancing helped combat the cold.
After Cavalry FC took the lead with a penalty kick, Rodriguez equalized with his spectacular bicycle kick, setting the stage for his game-winning goal later in extra time. The thrilling match concluded with Atlético Ottawa lifting the North Star Cup, marking their first CPL title victory.
Players and fans alike celebrated the hard-fought victory, with goalkeeper Nathan Ingham expressing joy and gratitude towards the loyal fan base. He emphasized the team’s determination to succeed under any circumstances and dedicated the victory to the passionate supporters.
Atlético Ottawa had previously reached the final in 2022 but fell short, while Cavalry FC aimed to defend their league title after winning the North Star Cup in 2024. The intense match showcased the resilience and skill of both teams amidst challenging weather conditions, culminating in a historic triumph for Atlético Ottawa.
The memorable championship victory will be cherished by players and fans alike, showcasing the spirit and dedication of Canadian soccer in adverse conditions.