Forge FC achieved a significant milestone in their inaugural match of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, earning a historic 0-0 draw against Tigres UANL in Hamilton. This remarkable result marks the first time a team from the Canadian Premier League has managed to keep a clean sheet in the Champions Cup.
Competing in chilly conditions, Forge faced a formidable Tigres squad, featuring eight starters from their recent Liga MX match. The lineup included notable players such as emerging Canadian international Marcelo Flores, who made his professional debut in Canada, and the renowned French striker Andre-Pierre Gignac.
Coach Bobby Smyrniotis, entering his eighth season with Forge and fourth campaign in the Concacaf Champions Cup, opted for a five-man defense. He utilized Ben Paton and Rezart Rama as wing-backs, while Tristan Borges operated as a false nine, flanked by dynamic young wingers Hoce Massunda and Ismael Oketokoun. This tactical setup allowed Forge to apply early pressure and establish a strong defensive structure.
As the first half progressed, Tigres began to take control of possession, yet Forge’s disciplined defensive arrangement effectively restricted their offensive options. By forcing Tigres to play toward the sidelines, they successfully limited central opportunities and kept the ball predominantly outside the danger zone.
A standout performance came from Forge’s goalkeeper, Dimitry Bertaud. The DR Congo international, who previously played for the French club Montpellier, made his home debut at Hamilton Stadium. Bertaud showcased his skills with a series of impressive saves, stopping several attempts from Gignac and Flores, totaling seven saves by the end of the match. Notably, Smyrniotis revealed post-game that Bertaud had only joined the team ten days prior to the match, underscoring his exceptional readiness and performance.
This draw not only highlights Forge FC’s growing stature in international football but also demonstrates their resilience against established opponents. The team’s ability to maintain composure and capitalize on their defensive strengths bodes well for their journey in the tournament.