In what will be remembered as one of the most extraordinary championship finals in football history, Atlético Ottawa claimed their first Canadian Premier League title amidst a fierce blizzard that transformed Monday's match into a winter spectacle.
The Snow-Encrusted Battle
Atlético Ottawa hosted Cavalry FC from Calgary in a match where the weather became as much a participant as the players. Constant snowfall created near-impossible playing conditions, with visibility severely compromised and normal football tactics rendered useless for large portions of the game.
Workers armed with snow shovels became crucial participants in the drama, periodically clearing the lines during breaks in play. The situation became so challenging that even Atletico Ottawa's goalkeeper Nathan Ingham joined the clearance efforts, demonstrating the collective struggle against the elements.
Rodríguez Emerges as Winter Hero
The opening period proved difficult for all players, but David Rodríguez eventually rose as the match-winner for Atlético Ottawa. The Spanish forward scored both of his team's goals in the 2-1 victory, though his journey to hero status began with the same struggles facing every player on the pitch.
After regular time ended with the scores locked at 1-1, officials took the unusual step of allowing an extended break so vehicles could clear accumulated snow from the pitch before extra time commenced. This decision set the stage for Rodríguez's dramatic winner.
A Quintessentially Canadian Affair
Players and coaches from both sides later compared the surreal match to beach football, albeit with significantly colder temperatures. The falling snow eased only slightly during the second half, with flakes continuing to accumulate throughout the match.
Despite the challenging conditions, dedicated Atlético Ottawa supporters remained until the very end, with some fans more bundled up against the cold than others. Their loyalty was rewarded when Rodríguez finished a through ball with a delicate chip over the Cavalry goalkeeper during extra time.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Atlético Ottawa, who are owned by Spanish La Liga giants Atlético Madrid. This championship represents their first title since joining the Canadian Premier League, secured in conditions that could only be described as authentically Canadian.
