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This Saturday marks a significant occasion in Canadian women’s soccer as AFC Toronto faces Vancouver Rise FC in the inaugural Northern Super League (NSL) Championship. Regardless of the outcome, this final will be historic, heightened by the impressive journeys both teams have taken to reach this point.
The Rise FC secured their spot in the championship after a hard-fought semifinal against Ottawa Rapid FC, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout. This match followed a tense 1-1 draw in Halifax, where Latifah Abdu shined with two goals in the first leg. The second leg showcased the team’s resilience, emerging victorious after a nail-biting series of penalties, with Sofia Hagman scoring the decisive goal.
The facts
Vancouver Rise FC finished the regular season with an 11-6-8 record, demonstrating their grit with an impressive eight-match unbeaten run over the summer. The team has embodied a collective spirit, with players like Jessika Cowart emphasizing their commitment to teamwork. Cowart stated, “We literally put our bodies on the line for each other. That’s our identity — team first. And it’s not just words. It’s real.”
AFC Toronto dominated the regular season, finishing at the top of the standings with a remarkable 16-6-3 record. They are riding a wave of confidence, having secured five consecutive victories leading up to the final. The team has shown formidable form, with eight wins and just one draw in their last nine matches. Midfielder Emma Regan highlighted the team’s mentality, stating, “Do or die, gotta put your body on the line, do whatever it takes to win.”
Players to watch
One standout player for Toronto is Esther Okoronkwo, pivotal in their attacking lineup. Her remarkable hat trick against Montreal Roses in the semifinal solidified her status as a game-changer. Meanwhile, Kaylee Hunter, a young talent, emerged as a leading scorer for the team, netting a total of 15 goals throughout the season. Coach Marko Milanović expressed excitement about their potential, noting that Okoronkwo consistently rises to the occasion.
Vancouver, seeking redemption after a heavy 7-0 loss to Toronto earlier in the season, will rely on their top scorer, Abdu, who has netted 11 goals this season. The team’s depth is evident, with players like Holly Ward and Quinn contributing consistently to the offense. Their balanced attack presents a formidable challenge.
Economic impact and community celebration
The upcoming NSL final is anticipated to generate over $12 million in economic activity and attract more than 20,000 fans to BMO Field. The Ontario government’s investment of $180,000 is part of a broader initiative to enhance women’s participation in sports. This match will culminate a four-day festival celebrating women’s sports, featuring community events, concerts, and discussions.
Since the league’s inception, over 275,000 fans have attended matches, showcasing the growing interest in women’s professional soccer in Canada. As Diana Matheson, co-founder of the NSL, stated, “The hope was if we build it, they will come. And it’s been an overwhelming yes.” Anticipation is high for Saturday, with the NSL final poised to be a landmark event for women’s sports in the nation.
The inaugural Northern Super League final promises to be an exciting contest between AFC Toronto and Vancouver Rise FC. With both teams bringing unique strengths and a determination to win, fans can expect an unforgettable matchup.