The Vancouver Rise have secured a spot in the first Northern Super League Final by triumphing over the Ottawa Rapid in a penalty shootout on Saturday. Sofia Hagman’s crucial penalty in the sixth round of kicks sealed the victory for Vancouver after Ottawa’s Julia Benati missed her attempt, saved by Rise goalkeeper Morgan McAslan.
McAslan’s heroics included another pivotal save in the fifth round against Susanne Haaland. Latifah Abdu’s successful penalty shortly after ensured Vancouver stayed in the game, leading to Hagman’s game-winning goal.
Despite Ottawa initially taking a 2-0 lead in the match, with goals from Delaney Baie Pridham and Melanie Forbes, a late equalizer from Holly Ward leveled the score for Vancouver, pushing the game into extra time.
Following the intense match, Rapid’s head coach Katrine Pederson expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the disappointment of the loss but also praising her team’s efforts and resilience throughout the season.
Vancouver had a strong performance in the second leg, dominating possession, shots on target, and accurate passes compared to Ottawa. With their spot in the NSL Final confirmed, the Rise will await the winner of the AFC Toronto vs. Montreal Roses semifinal.
Desiree Scott, the captain of the Ottawa Rapid, announced her retirement post-match, with an attendance of 3,068 spectators recorded.
For a full replay of the match, fans can watch the Northern Super League Playoffs: Ottawa vs. Vancouver.
