Vancouver FC settle for 1-1 draw with Pacific after stoppage-time goal, now shift focus to Ottawa semifinal clash.
Derby Drama in Victoria
Vancouver FC came within moments of victory on Saturday night before Pacific FC struck a stoppage-time equalizer, forcing a 1-1 draw in the final Salish Sea Derby of the season. The Canadian Premier League match unfolded at Royal Athletic Park in Victoria before a spirited crowd.
How the Game Unfolded
The Eagles struck first when Hugo Mbongue converted a penalty late in the first half, giving Vancouver a 1-0 advantage they carried deep into the second half. But in the 94th minute, Pacific’s Aly Ndom found the net during a chaotic scramble in front of goal, salvaging a point for the hosts.
Coaches and Players React
Despite conceding late, Vancouver’s interim head coach Martin Nash highlighted his squad’s fight. “I’m proud of the guys and the way they battled,” Nash said. Mbongue echoed that optimism, noting the team can carry confidence into their next match: “We did a lot of good stuff Saturday, and we can build on that.”
Stakes Beyond the Derby
While Vancouver has already been eliminated from CPL playoff contention, the draw comes at a crucial time. The performance offered rhythm and resilience ahead of what could be the club’s most important fixture of the year — the Canadian Championship semifinal second leg.
What’s Next for Vancouver
Vancouver now travels to Ottawa to face Atlético Ottawa on Thursday. Holding a 3-1 aggregate lead from the first leg, the Eagles are within reach of advancing to the Canadian Championship Final for the first time in club history. Kickoff is scheduled for Thursday night in the nation’s capital.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
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