In another landmark moment for Canadian women's soccer, AFC Toronto and Montréal Roses FC ignited a new chapter in the nation's sporting history with a thrilling inaugural match at BMO Field on Saturday, April 19. The encounter, which ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Montréal, captivated a sold-out crowd of 14,518 fans, signaling the dawn of a promising era in the NSL.​

A Historic Kickoff

The atmosphere at BMO Field was electric as fans gathered to witness the debut of AFC Toronto, the city's first professional women's soccer team. The match also marked the beginning of a fierce rivalry with Montréal Roses FC, adding a new dimension to the storied Toronto-Montréal sports competition. The event was further highlighted by the presence of Canadian sprinting star Andre De Grasse, who presented the match ball, and members of the PWHL's Toronto Sceptres, underscoring the unity and excitement surrounding women's sports in Canada.

Early Drama and Tactical Battles

The game commenced with high intensity, and within the first two minutes, Montréal's co-captain Tanya Boychuk capitalized on a misdirected back pass from Toronto midfielder Nyota Katembo. Boychuk intercepted the ball and delivered a precise left-footed shot past Toronto's goalkeeper Sofia Manner, giving the Roses an early lead.

Despite the early setback, AFC Toronto demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess. They dominated possession with 59% and outshot Montréal 15-4, including six shots on target. Toronto's relentless pressure in the second half showcased their determination, but Montréal's defense, led by goalkeeper Anna Karpenko, held firm to secure the victory.

Looking Ahead

While AFC Toronto didn't secure a win in their debut, their performance laid a strong foundation for the season ahead. The team's ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities bodes well for future matches. As the league’s inaugural season progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters and the continued development of a new and exciting chapter in Canadian sports history.

Next Match: Halifax Tides FC vs. Calgary Wild FC | April 26 @ 6:00pm AT