As the CF Montréal prepares to face Forge FC on Wednesday, they will look to leverage the recent resurgence of forward Prince Owusu.
This match is being characterized as the most crucial of the season for CF Montréal, despite being a quarter-final in the Canadian Championship. The stakes are particularly high given the current context of their season. The squad is coming into this match trailing 1-0 after the first leg held on May 20, during one of the lowest points of their season.
With a disheartening 2025 MLS campaign underway, the Canadian Championship becomes the last remaining target within reach for CF Montréal, offering a pathway to qualify for next year’s CONCACAF Champions Cup. If they fall short again against Forge, it would mark a disappointing repeat of last year’s performance against them.
Coach Marco Donadel described the upcoming game as a final, stating that any player lacking the right mindset should consider a career change. He emphasized the intensity and significance of the match, making clear that every detail, from tactical adjustments to set pieces, will play a pivotal role in what he sees as a final.
Reflecting on their previous encounter, defender Joel Waterman admitted that the team had not been performing well, struggling to win battles on the field. Donadel, noting an injury crisis at that time, highlighted that many players were unavailable, which significantly impacted their performance.
Now, as they prepare for the return match, the injury list has diminished, with only a few players sidelined. Waterman also shared that this time, tactics may take a backseat, and the focus will be on which team exhibits greater desire to win by securing early goals and winning aerial duels.
Notably, the Forge FC comes into this match with momentum, being undefeated in their last 13 matches, a stretch that extends to 15 when including their victories in the Canadian Championship.
Owusu’s recent performance provides a glimmer of hope for Montréal, as he has scored five goals in his last seven matches, a vast improvement from a prior dry spell. His contributions may prove crucial in this high-stakes encounter.
The match is set to take place at Saputo Stadium on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m., and will be available to watch on OneSoccer. A strong showing from CF Montréal could pivot the trajectory of their season, reigniting hopes for a successful campaign.