AFC Toronto secured a 2-0 victory over the Montreal Roses in the first leg of the Northern Super League semifinal on Saturday. Nikayla Small scored in the seventh minute, followed by Kaylee Hunter in the 70th minute. Toronto will host Montreal for the second leg on Nov. 9 at York Lions Stadium.
Toronto coach Marko Milanovic expressed confidence in winning the upcoming game, emphasizing consistent preparation since the preseason. Goalkeeper Sierra Cota-Yarde delivered a stellar performance, maintaining a clean sheet at Stade Boréale in Laval, Que.
Milanovic acknowledged both teams’ opportunities but credited Toronto’s finishing and defensive efforts for the win. He highlighted the team’s resilience amidst injuries and praised the medical staff’s contribution to the victory.
In the other semifinal, Ottawa Rapid FC and the Vancouver Rise will kick off at TD Place. The aggregate winners from the semifinals will advance to the championship match on Nov. 15 at Toronto’s BMO Field.
Small and Hunter’s goals were pivotal in the match, with Small emphasizing the importance of an early lead in challenging weather conditions. Hunter, a standout player at 17, finished second in scoring during the NSL’s inaugural season and was recognized as the rookie of the year.
Toronto finished atop the NSL standings with 16 wins in the first season, led by Milanovic. Meanwhile, the Roses secured the final playoff spot with a 10-9-6 record.
Viewers can catch the full match replay of the semifinal between Montreal and Toronto for an in-depth look at the action and highlights.
