Forge FC managed to secure a 1-1 draw against FC Supra du Quebec in the Canadian Championship semifinal first leg at Stade Boreale with a late 95th-minute equalizer from Daniel Krutzen.
Supra took the lead with Ibrahim Conde’s goal but struggled to maintain their advantage as Forge fought back.
Supra head coach Nick Razzaghi expressed disappointment despite being one game away from the final, acknowledging the team’s defensive solidity but also noting room for improvement in their performance.
Both teams had made significant lineup changes from their previous encounter in the Canadian Premier League just four days earlier.
Forge, a consistent force in the CPL, showcased resilience and quality in their gameplay after initially being outplayed, as coach Bobby Smyrniotis highlighted the importance of avoiding complacency.
With the match ending in a draw, Forge now looks forward to the second leg at Hamilton Stadium, where they have a strong record of success.
Supra’s Lead and Forge’s Response
The match started cautiously, with both teams hesitant to take risks. Supra’s disciplined defense paid off when Conde capitalized on a counterattack to give them the lead in the 36th minute.
Forge fought back strongly, creating scoring opportunities and testing Supra’s goalkeeper but entered halftime trailing by a goal.
In the second half, Forge intensified their pressure, challenging Supra’s defense and aiming for an equalizer.
Despite facing a seasoned opponent, Supra struggled with nerves and decision-making under pressure, as acknowledged by coach Razzaghi.
Krutzen and Bekker had chances to level the score earlier, but it was Krutzen’s late heroics with an unmarked finish that secured the draw for Forge.
The second leg of the semifinal is set for September 15 in Hamilton.
