Atlético Ottawa clinched their inaugural Canadian Premier League championship on Sunday evening by defeating Calgary’s Cavalry FC 2-1 in a thrilling match played under heavy snowfall that left a lasting impression on players and spectators. David Rodriguez emerged as the hero by scoring the game-winning goal in the 106th minute, his second of the night, on a field freshly cleared of snow after a tied regulation time. His initial goal, a spectacular bicycle kick dubbed the “icicle kick” due to the wintry conditions, set the stage for a memorable victory. Rodriguez expressed his awe at the experience, thanking the supportive fans and looking forward to celebrating in the warmth of the locker room.
The challenging weather conditions delayed the kickoff, with stadium crews using leaf blowers and shovels to maintain clear lines on the pitch throughout the game. Despite the bitter cold, over 13,000 devoted fans braved the elements, with many relishing the unique spectacle. Some shared creative tips for staying warm, such as dancing along with the crowd. Meanwhile, others came prepared with ski goggles and thick mittens, prompting a playful request from the announcer to refrain from throwing snowballs.
Cavalry FC took the lead with a penalty kick from Fraser Aird, but Rodriguez swiftly equalized with his remarkable bicycle kick. As the battle continued, both teams struggled with the snowy conditions, leading to an extended halftime break for field clearing. In extra time, Rodriguez secured the victory for Atlético Ottawa with a well-placed shot past the Cavalry goalkeeper, sealing their historic win.
Following the match, top scorer Sam Salter praised the resilience of the fans and expressed joy at winning in front of them. Goalkeeper Nathan Ingham, who helped clear the snow during breaks, described the indescribable feeling of clinching the title and praised the team’s determination. Ingham highlighted the unwavering support of the fans, emphasizing their deserving of the championship. The triumph marked a significant milestone for Atlético Ottawa, who had previously reached the final in 2022 but fell short, while Cavalry FC aimed to defend their title from the previous season.