Atlético Ottawa secured their inaugural Canadian Premier League championship on Sunday evening, triumphing over Calgary’s Cavalry FC with a 2-1 victory in the midst of a significant November snowstorm that left a lasting impression on players and spectators alike.
David Rodriguez clinched the match-winning goal in the 106th minute, marking his second goal of the game on a pitch that had just been cleared of snow following a tied score at the end of regular play.
His initial goal, a remarkable bicycle kick dubbed the “icicle kick” due to the wintry setting, occurred in the first half. Reflecting on the experience after the game, Rodriguez described it as “amazing.”
“I’m never going to forget this night and I just want to thank all the people that showed up tonight,” Rodriguez expressed to CBC following the final whistle. “I can’t wait to get to the locker room and be warm and celebrate.”
Soccer player David Rodriguez tells The National about the moment he scored a bicycle kick in the snow, known as an icicle-kick, in Canada’s Premier League final to equalize the game and propel Atlético Ottawa to victory in the championship.
Both teams battled not only each other but also the challenging weather conditions on Sunday evening, leading to a delayed kickoff due to the snow. Stadium crews utilized leaf blowers and shovels persistently to maintain clear lines on the field, with players occasionally assisting in the effort.
Reportedly, 13,132 dedicated soccer enthusiasts braved the harsh conditions that night, with most staying until the final whistle. Many attendees appeared to relish the extraordinary event.
“It’s Canada and it’s November so it’s expected, so we just dress up for it. And I’ve never seen soccer played this way, so it’s cool!” mentioned Jacinthe Duval, who attended the game with her son.
Her strategy to stay warm? “Just dance and boogie with the rest of the crowd, that’s all.”
