AFC Toronto finished off their regular season at the top of the league and celebrated becoming the Northern Super League’s first-ever Supporters’ Shield champions
On Sunday, October 19th at York Lions Stadium, AFC Toronto hosted the Montreal Roses and wrapped up the regular season of the Northern Super League with a memorable home outing, in more ways than one.
Not only was this the last regular season match, but it was also the club’s Fan Appreciation Match, and the stage for a historic presentation as AFC Toronto was awarded the league’s inaugural Supporters’ Shield, an award recognizing the team with the best regular-season record. Also different at this match were the AFC players’ jerseys. In a collaboration with Dove’s #ChangeTheCompliment campaign, each player chose a word of empowerment that was worn on the back of their jerseys for the entirety of the match.
With top position already clinched, the match was both a celebration of consistency and community, and a test of momentum heading into the playoffs. Montreal got off to a strong start in the 10th minute via a sharp counterattack, but AFC Toronto settled into the match with patience and poise. Just before halftime, fullback Lauren Rowemade a strong run up the side and sent in a perfect pass, which Sarah Stratigakis finished, sending the crowd into halftime buzzing.
The second half was more balanced, as both teams searched for the goal that would put them in front, but it was AFC Toronto who would find the breakthrough. In the 86th minute, league assist leader Esther Okoronkwo played a clever pass through to Nikayla Small, who finished with confidence to give Toronto the lead, 2-1. The goal sealed not just the win, but the perfect send off to a landmark regular season.
With the result, AFC Toronto closed out their campaign on a seven-game winning streak and finished claiming 51 points, keeping them at first place in the league.
The post-match scenes were electric. Players, staff, and fans celebrated together as the inaugural NSL Supporters’ Shield was presented at midfield, marking the club’s first official trophy and a symbolic moment for the new league. For the supporters, it was a day of gratitude and validation, celebrating both the team’s success and their own role in helping build the club’s identity. The match featured fan zone activities, giveaways, and the crowd was buzzing the entire match. As the team received the Supporters’ Shield, the crowd erupted in cheers and claps, watching each player raise the trophy. There were sparklers, confetti, and smiles all around.
Head Coach Marko Milanovic praised the team’s performance and thanked the fans for showing up. For Toronto, the preparation for the playoffs has begun as they are set to play against the Roses on November 1st.
October 19th will be remembered as a historic day for AFC Toronto and the Northern Super League, not only for their incredible achievement, but as a celebration of women in sport.