NSL Playoffs Preview: Can Montreal Halt Torontos High-Powered Offence?
The inaugural season of the Northern Super League (NSL) has concluded successfully, gaining traction among soccer fans across Canada. This league marks the establishment of the first professional women’s soccer competition in the country. The league consists of six teams: AFC Toronto, Ottawa Rapid FC, Vancouver Rise FC, Montreal Roses FC, Calgary Wild FC, and Halifax Tides FC. The regular season, featuring 25 matches, wrapped up in late October. The top four teams are now gearing up for the playoffs, which begin this weekend.
2025 NSL Playoffs Overview
The NSL playoffs will consist of a two-legged semifinal format. The aggregate score across both matches will determine who advances to the championship. If the scores are tied after regulation, extra time and potentially penalty kicks will be utilized to determine the winner.
- Championship Date: Nov. 15
- Championship Location: BMO Field, Toronto
- Trophy: Diana B. Matheson Cup, named after a key figure in women’s soccer in Canada.
Semifinal Matchups
- Leg 1: AFC Toronto vs. Montreal Roses FC – Nov. 1 at Stade Boréale
- Leg 2: Montreal Roses FC vs. AFC Toronto – Nov. 9 at York Lions Stadium
- Leg 1: Vancouver Rise FC vs. Ottawa Rapid FC – Nov. 4 at Swangard Stadium
- Leg 2: Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Vancouver Rise FC – Nov. 8 at TD Place Stadium
Team Profiles
AFC Toronto finished the regular season as champions, led by a powerful offense that scored 42 goals. The team was unbeaten in its last five matches, securing four wins. Four players received honors in the NSL team of the season, including Kaylee Hunter, who scored 14 goals and provided three assists.
Montreal Roses FC placed fourth with a record of 10-6-9. They had the league’s best defense, allowing only 23 goals but struggled in their last matches. Their key player, Stéphanie Hill, excelled defensively while contributing five goals.
Performances and Statistics
- Toronto’s Record: 16 wins, 3 losses, 6 draws (Supporters’ Shield winners)
- Montreal’s Goal Statistics: 30 goals scored, 9 matches without scoring
- Goalkeepers to Watch: Morgan McAslan (Vancouver) with 9 shutouts; Kaylee Hunter (Toronto), limited due to injury.
Ottawa Rapid FC performed strongly in the season, finishing second. They scored 41 goals and conceded 26. Key player Delaney Baie Pridham was named the league’s MVP, scoring 17 goals and earning the Golden Boot.
Vancouver Rise FC had a mixed finish with a record tying Ottawa on points but ranked third due to goal differential. Player Morgan McAslan earned the Golden Glove award for her defensive efforts.
Conclusion
The upcoming NSL playoffs promise exciting matchups as teams strive for the Diana B. Matheson Cup. AFC Toronto will aim to leverage their high-powered offense against Montreal’s formidable defense. The playoffs not only serve as a stage for these talented teams but also spotlight the growth of women’s soccer in Canada.
