In a thrilling Canadian Premier League encounter at TD Place Stadium, Atletico Ottawa edged past Forge FC 2-1 on May 25, 2026, to solidify their position near the top of the standings. The match, which kicked off at 2:10 AM local time, showcased a determined home side that battled back from an early deficit to claim all three points in front of a passionate crowd.

Match Overview

Forge FC, the perennial CPL powerhouse, entered the contest looking to extend their unbeaten run. However, Atletico Ottawa had other plans. The visitors struck first in the 22nd minute through a well-worked counter-attack, but Ottawa responded with two unanswered goals before halftime. The first came from a set-piece header, and the winner was a stunning strike from outside the box in the 43rd minute. The second half saw Forge push for an equalizer, but Ottawa's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Nathan Ingham making several crucial saves.

Key Moments

• 22' – Forge opener: David Choinière latched onto a through ball and slotted past Ingham to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.
• 35' – Ottawa equalizer: A corner kick from Miguel Acosta found the head of center-back Drew Beckie, who powered the ball into the net.
• 43' – Ottawa winner: Midfielder Ben Fisk collected a clearance 25 yards out and unleashed a curling effort that beat Forge goalkeeper Triston Henry at the far post.
• 65' – Big save: Ingham denied Forge substitute Woobens Pacius from close range, preserving the lead.

Tactical Analysis

Atletico Ottawa manager Carlos Gonzalez set up his team in a compact 4-4-2, looking to absorb pressure and hit Forge on the break. The strategy worked perfectly after conceding early, as the midfield duo of Maxime Ferrari and Chris Mannella disrupted Forge's rhythm. Forge, playing their usual 3-5-2, struggled to break down Ottawa's organized defensive block after taking the lead. The defeat ended Forge's four-match unbeaten streak and left them two points behind Ottawa in the table.

Player of the Match: Ben Fisk

The veteran winger was a constant threat down the left flank and his stunning goal proved to be the decider. Fisk also completed four dribbles and created two chances, earning him the Man of the Match honors.

Table Impact

The victory moved Atletico Ottawa into second place in the CPL standings with 12 points from six matches, while Forge FC dropped to fourth with 10 points. The result also marked Ottawa's third home win of the season, strengthening their reputation as a fortress at TD Place.