Early Kickoff and Brotherly Rivalry: Canadian Championship Quarterfinals Kick Off Excitement

Author:

Olivia Phillips

|Published: May 7th, 2024

In an unusual early kickoff, Forge FC, the reigning Canadian Premier League (CPL) champion, will host MLS side CF Montreal on Tuesday in the opening leg of their Canadian Championship quarterfinal.

The match, dubbed a "School Day Match," will start at 11 a.m., adding an exciting twist to the clash between the two teams.

Despite the unconventional timing, players and coaches from both sides are gearing up for the showdown.

While reflecting on the morning kickoff, Montreal defender Joel Waterman joked about not having played in such a game since his youth days.

However, he emphasized that both teams' missions remain the same—to win the game and advance in the tournament.

While the early start may pose some logistical challenges, both teams are focused on the task at hand.

Montreal coach Laurent Courtois downplayed the kickoff time, emphasizing the need for his team to stay focused and execute their game plan effectively.

For Forge coach Bobby Smyrniotis, the early kickoff is fine with his preparations, as he's accustomed to early mornings.

With the defending champion Vancouver Whitecaps visiting Cavalry FC in the other quarterfinal matchup on Tuesday, the stage is set for an exciting day of Canadian soccer action.

The Forge-Montreal clash also sets the stage for a unique sibling rivalry, with David Choiniere playing for Forge and his younger brother Mathieu Choiniere representing Montreal.

As the Canadian Championship quarterfinals kickoff, fans can expect intense competition, with both teams vying for a spot in the semifinals and a chance to lift the prestigious Voyageurs Cup.