Originally postponed due to a snowstorm, the NSL semifinal finally kicked off Monday under falling snow, with fans braving the elements for a memorable showdown between Toronto and Montréal.
In a semi-final match postponed by heavy snow, AFC Toronto defeated Montréal Roses FC 4-1 on Monday evening, securing a place in the inaugural NSL Final. The win was highlighted by Esther Okoronkwo’s historic hat trick, the fastest in NSL history, and a late goal from Lauren Rowe, all in a match played under swirling snow and bright lights that made the stadium feel like
a snow globe.
The game was initially set for Sunday, November 9th, but was postponed after York Lions Stadium became blanketed in snow. Fans from the stands, including the Vermillion Vanguard, volunteered to help shovel and clear the field, but the snow continued heavily, resulting in fans doing snow angels on the field and returning to York Lions Stadium the following evening. Even as the match began on Monday night, light snow fell on the pitch, creating challenging conditions for both teams and making the stadium feel like a winter scene frozen in time.
From the opening whistle, Okoronkwo set the tone, scoring three goals in 28 minutes, making NSL hat-trick history. Each goal showcased her pace and precision, and she quickly put Toronto in control. It’s safe to say, it was Esther Okoronkwo’s game.
The celebrations from the team were also becoming notable parts of the evening, as the players jumped into the snow bank on the sidelines after that first point lead.
Montréal managed to pull one back before halftime, but the team struggled to respond to Toronto’s attacking pressure on the snowy field.
Toronto’s dominance continued in the second half, and in the 83rd minute, AFC’s Lauren Rowe scored the fourth goal, securing the 4-1 result. The goal, like the rest of the match, was met with cheers from fans, and this time, Rowe and midfielder April Lantaigne celebrated by doing the worm on the snowy turf, causing fans to erupt into laughter.
The energy in the stadium was electric, with fans cheering through the snowfall and players feeding off of the crowd’s support.
From the fans who helped shovel snow on Sunday to the celebratory chants on Monday, the weekend highlighted the dedication and community spirit surrounding the team. It felt like a very Canadian weekend to say the least.
With the win, Toronto advances to the NSL Final against Vancouver Rise FC at BMO Field on Saturday, November 15. Okoronkwo’s hat trick and Rowe’s late goal were decisive in the semi-final, giving Toronto momentum as they prepare for the winning game this weekend.