Atlético Ottawa's David Rodriguez reacts to a call from the referees during the second half of Sunday's snowy Canadian Premier League final. Rodriguez scored both of Atlético's goals, leading them to a 2-1 win over Cavalry FC and their first-ever North Star Cup.
Atlético Ottawa claimed their first-ever Canadian Premier League (CPL) title, defeating Cavalry FC 2-1 in extra time Sunday night. The dramatic victory came at TD Place amid a heavy mid-November snowstorm, making the North Star Cup final as much a battle against the weather as the opposition.
Snowstorm Delays Kickoff
The game’s start was postponed due to driving snow, forcing crews to clear the pitch using snowblowers and shovels. Players occasionally pitched in to help. Fans who braved the cold were reminded not to throw snowballs onto the field.
Despite the harsh conditions, the stadium atmosphere remained electric, with supporters cheering through the snow and cold.
First Half Action
Cavalry FC opened the scoring in the 32nd minute when Fraser Aird converted a penalty kick, sending Calgary ahead. Atlético Ottawa responded quickly, as David Rodriguez scored a spectacular bicycle kick to level the match, thrilling the home crowd.
The heavy snow made passing and attacking difficult throughout regulation time. By the end of 90 minutes, neither team could break the deadlock.
Extra-Time Drama
After regulation, crews spent nearly an hour clearing the pitch of snow. With conditions slightly improved, the match resumed for extra time.
In the 106th minute, Rodriguez secured victory with a stunning finish. He received a long ball from Manny Aparicio and chipped it past Cavalry goalkeeper Marco Carducci, sending the ball into the net and igniting celebrations.
Cavalry tried to respond in the final minutes, but Ottawa’s defense held firm, ensuring the home team lifted the North Star Cup for the first time in club history.
Hero of the Match
Speaking to CBC after the match, David Rodriguez described the game as unforgettable.
"This night was my night … I’m just happy with the coaches, with my teammates. It’s incredible," Rodriguez said, beaming.
His performance, scoring both goals, was decisive in guiding Atlético Ottawa to glory.
Road to the Final
Atlético Ottawa had only reached the CPL final once before, in 2022, when they fell to Forge FC. Their triumph over Cavalry FC marks a historic milestone for the club.
Cavalry FC, meanwhile, returned to the CPL final for the second consecutive season but were unable to replicate their previous success.
Atlético Ottawa Fans and Celebration
Despite bitter temperatures and heavy snowfall, a large number of fans stayed to witness Ottawa’s victory. When the final whistle blew, the crowd erupted in celebration, applauding a historic achievement for their team.
Players and supporters alike celebrated in the locker room, leaving the snow-covered pitch behind as the team savored a hard-fought victory.
Legacy of the Win
Atlético Ottawa’s triumph in extreme weather conditions highlights their resilience and determination. The team overcame a challenging season and a snow-covered pitch to lift the CPL North Star Cup, a first in the club’s history.
With Rodriguez’s heroics and the collective effort of the team, Ottawa has firmly etched their name into Canadian Premier League history.
