Vancouver FC extends its unbeaten streak to five games after a gritty 0-0 draw with Atlético Ottawa, keeping playoff hopes alive for both sides.
Vancouver FC Keeps the Streak Alive in Ottawa
Two of the Canadian Premier League’s hottest teams clashed on Sunday — and neither blinked. Vancouver FC and Atlético Ottawa, both unbeaten in their last four outings, battled to a tense scoreless draw that stretched their undefeated runs to five games.
Vancouver head coach Martin Nash couldn’t hide his satisfaction. “I’m very pleased with the performance,” he said, smiling after the match. “We controlled the ball more today than we’ve done recently. That was the plan — not to sit back all game. I thought it was a really even contest.”
Defense Shines Bright for the Eagles
Vancouver’s backline was nothing short of brilliant. In their final road game of the regular season, the Eagles’ defense locked down Ottawa’s attacking threats, cutting off their supply and forcing them into difficult positions.
Early in the second half, Vancouver nearly broke the deadlock. Hugo Mbongue got a clean header from a corner kick but sent it just wide. Moments later, a golden opportunity slipped away when Outtara overhit a pass that could have sent a teammate through on goal.
Ottawa fired back quickly. Joaquim Coulanges forced a fine save from Vancouver goalkeeper Callum Irving with a sharp strike, but the scoreline stayed even.
Close Calls and Missed Chances
The match’s biggest gasp came in the 68th minute. Ottawa’s Gabriel Antinoro unleashed a thunderous shot from the center of the pitch that smashed off the post — inches away from breaking the deadlock.
Despite the tension, both teams showed remarkable composure. The Eagles stayed organized, while Ottawa refused to back down, making for a high-intensity duel from start to finish.
Playoff Picture Still in Play
Heading into the game, Vancouver FC held the league’s best record, riding high from a strong run that included reaching the TELUS Canadian Championship Final and a gutsy draw with Forge FC — the first away team to take a point at Hamilton Stadium in two months.
Atlético Ottawa, meanwhile, entered as the league’s only other side without a loss in four matches. With Sunday’s draw, their playoff hopes remain alive, though they’ll need help. To advance, Ottawa must win their final match — and hope Forge FC stumbles at home against York.
What’s Next for Vancouver FC
Vancouver returns home for their final regular-season match on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Willoughby Community Park, where they’ll host Cavalry at 1 p.m. With momentum on their side and an unbeaten streak to protect, the Eagles are flying high into the season’s final stretch.
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