In a dramatic conclusion to the Canadian Premier League season, Cavalry FC saw their championship aspirations buried under heavy snowfall as they fell 2-1 to Atlético Ottawa in an unforgettable final at TD Place on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Winter Wonderland Turns Nightmare for Calgary Side
The highly anticipated championship match transformed into a surreal winter spectacle as temperatures plunged to -8°C and snow accumulated throughout the game. The challenging conditions saw players struggling through snow above their ankles, creating scenes more reminiscent of a winter expedition than a professional soccer final.
David Rodríguez emerged as the hero for the home team, scoring both goals including the dramatic winner 20 minutes into extra time. The victory marked a stunning upset for Atlético Ottawa against the defending champions from Calgary.
Beach Football in a Blizzard
Cavalry FC coach Tommy Wheeldon didn't mince words when describing the unusual playing conditions. "It's no game of football, is it?" Wheeldon told OneSoccer during halftime. "It's more like beach football. It's about positions and areas. I'm not sure it brings out the best in a final."
The veteran coach acknowledged the uniquely Canadian nature of the spectacle, noting, "It's a final and it's a Canadian one, and you've got to expect this when you're in our country. The fans are throwing snowballs. Only in Canada, right?"
Herculean Efforts to Keep Game Playable
The extreme weather necessitated extraordinary measures to maintain playable conditions. Grounds crews conducted snow removal every 15 minutes to uncover crucial field lines, with even goalkeepers joining the effort to clear their areas during regular stoppages.
The situation became so severe that organizers implemented a 60-minute delay after regulation play to completely plow the pitch, an unprecedented measure in CPL history.
Former Cavalry captain Mason Trafford, now working in marketing, marveled at the commitment shown by both teams during the OneSoccer broadcast. "The images of guys popping up out of the snow looking like Yetis is crazy," Trafford observed. "I just think what a testament to the game and what a showcase of what we're all about."
At the final whistle, Atlético goalkeeper Nathan Ingham captured the moment's emotion perfectly, telling reporters, "It's unbelievable, man. It's honestly unbelievable."
The heartbreaking loss denies Cavalry FC their second Canadian Premier League championship in the club's seven-year history, while Atlético Ottawa celebrates their first North Star Cup under the most memorable of circumstances.
