Atlético Ottawa secured their inaugural Canadian Premier League championship on Sunday night by defeating Calgary’s Cavalry FC with a 2-1 victory amidst a heavy November snowstorm that left a lasting impression on players and fans. David Rodriguez scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, marking his second goal of the match on a cleared snow-covered field after regulation time ended in a draw.
Rodriguez’s first goal, a remarkable bicycle kick referred to as the “icicle kick” due to the wintry setting, came in the first half. Post-match, Rodriguez expressed his awe at the experience, thanking the supportive crowd and looking forward to celebrating in the warmth of the locker room.
Despite weather challenges, both teams battled fiercely, causing a delay in kickoff as stadium crews worked tirelessly to maintain a playable pitch. A total of 13,132 dedicated fans braved the cold conditions, with many embracing the unique spectacle.
Calgary initially took the lead with a penalty kick by Fraser Aird, but Rodriguez equalized with his stunning bicycle kick shortly after. As the game progressed, Rodriguez secured the winning goal in extra time, sealing Ottawa’s victory and sparking jubilation among the home crowd.
After the match, top scorer Sam Salter and goalkeeper Nathan Ingham lauded the fans for their unwavering support and resilience. Ingham emphasized the team’s adaptability to various conditions and their determination to secure the win for their dedicated supporters.
Atlético Ottawa’s triumph marked their first CPL title win, contrasting with their previous final loss in 2022. Cavalry FC, aiming for a back-to-back championship, fell short in their bid for the North Star Cup.