Ottawa Rapid FC Eliminated in Playoffs as Women’s Soccer Momentum Surges

UPDATE: Ottawa Rapid FC’s inaugural season has come to a dramatic close as the team fell in a penalty shootout to Vancouver Rise FC during the semi-finals on July 15, 2023. This intense showdown at TD Place marks a significant moment in women’s soccer, highlighting the rising momentum and engagement within the sport.

In a gripping contest that saw Rapid FC trailing 2-1 after the first leg, the home team needed to secure at least a 2-0 victory to advance to the league’s first-ever NSL Final. Rapid FC surged ahead with a commanding lead but faced heartbreak when Vancouver equalized in the 84th minute, forcing the match into extra time and ultimately penalty kicks.

Despite a strong performance, Sofia Hagman clinched victory for Vancouver in the shootout, sending her team to the finals against either AFC Toronto or the Montreal Roses. Toronto prevailed with a 2-0 win over Montreal in the first semi-final, setting the stage for their decisive rematch scheduled for tomorrow.

The outcome for Ottawa Rapid FC is bittersweet, with the team finishing second in the regular season, boasting 11 wins, 8 losses, and 6 draws. However, the energy and enthusiasm surrounding women’s soccer in Ottawa have never been stronger. Fans packed the stands, creating an electric atmosphere that signals a turning point for the sport in Canada.

“It’s everything,” said Thomas Gilbert, CEO of Rapid FC, in an interview with CTV News Ottawa. “I want my nieces to grow up in a world where they can live whatever dream they want to live. The only way to do that is by ensuring those role models are visible.”

The growth of women’s soccer in Ottawa is being fueled by the establishment of the NSL, which aims to provide a stable and professional platform for female athletes. Diana Matheson, founder of the NSL, emphasized the league’s broader impact beyond the pitch, stating, “It’s about women in all areas—players, coaches, referees, and beyond. This is not just about the girls; it’s changing societal perceptions for everyone.”

As the excitement builds toward the NSL Finals, this moment serves as a powerful reminder of the growing support for women’s sports in Canada. The community’s engagement and passion are evident, illustrating a significant cultural shift that promises to inspire future generations.

Stay tuned as we follow the developments in the NSL Finals and the ongoing rise of women’s soccer in Ottawa and across Canada.