Atlético Ottawa Claim First CPL Title With 2–1 Win Over Cavalry

OTTAWA, November 9 — In a championship night for the ages, the Atlético Ottawa claimed their first ever North Star Cup by defeating the defending-champion Cavalry FC 2–1 in an unforgettable snow-storm at TD Place Stadium. The win came in extra time, with a spectacular goal from David Rodríguez, who silenced the elements and sealed the title. More than 13,000 supporters stayed through heavy snowfall and plowed pauses in the action, standing by their team as weather and opponent posed equal threats. Kickoff was delayed, and the match required frequent snow-clearing breaks to keep lines and the field playable. Cavalry struck first, gaining the lead in the 33rd minute when Fraser Aird converted a penalty under the wintry skies. But only minutes later, in the 40th, Rodríguez produced what many are calling the greatest goal in CPL Final history: a soaring bicycle kick, the ball meeting the underside of the bar and dropping into the net. The game needed extra time, In the 107th minute Rodríguez finished a floated ball from Manny Aparicio with a chip over the Cavalry keeper to secure the championship. Atlético Ottawa’s coach Diego Mejía spoke afterwards of the team’s mindset: “We play the same way in the snow as we do all season… now I think it’s fair to say: best season ever for a team in the CPL.” With this victory, Atlético Ottawa join the ranks of CPL champions and will now qualify for continental competition via the CONCACAF Champions Cup. For Cavalry FC, the valiant defence of their title ends in heartbreak.