Forge, Cavalry Clash for Spot in CPL Championship Game

On Sunday, two rivals meet once more as Forge FC welcomes defending champions Cavalry FC. This encounter is pivotal, offering a place in the Canadian Premier League (CPL) championship game on November 9 against Atletico Ottawa. This matchup revisits recent finals, with Forge and Cavalry each claiming titles in 2019, 2023, and 2024. The stakes are high as both teams aim for supremacy in the league.

Historical Context

Forge FC has a storied history, having won four championships across various years: 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. Their recent defeat in the 2024 final to Cavalry adds to the tension of this matchup. In the previous playoffs, Cavalry eliminated Forge in the semifinals, winning 1-0 and asserting their dominance.

Recent Performances

• Forge finished the regular season at the top with a record of 16 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses.
• Cavalry ended the season in third place, with 11 wins, 8 draws, and 9 losses.
• Forge experienced a rough patch, losing 2-1 to Ottawa in the championship semifinal, while Cavalry triumphed 4-1 against York United to advance.

The regular-season meetings between these teams ended in a draw, with both sides registering equal performances. Forge secured a home victory 1-0 in their opener on April 5 and drew once at Hamilton Stadium. Cavalry claimed a notable 4-1 victory later in the season.

Coaches’ Perspectives

Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge’s coach, has praised his team’s quality and consistency. He emphasizes the importance of performing well under pressure during the playoffs. “Our success has come from playing high-quality football,” he remarked, reflecting on the team’s dedication.

Dissimilar views arise between the coaches, especially regarding officiating. Smyrniotis has expressed frustration over missed penalties in recent games, advocating for the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.

Availability and Key Players

As the game approaches, both teams are assessing their rosters. Cavalry coach Tommy Wheeldon confirmed that all players, except veteran midfielder Sergio Camargo, are fit to play. For Forge, the participation of Belgian forward Viktor Klonaridis remains uncertain.

This clash between Forge and Cavalry not only carries historical significance but also promises to deliver high-stakes drama. Both teams are aiming for glory, knowing that victory paves the way to the championship and redemption for earlier playoff disappointments.