Forge FC managed to secure a 1-1 draw against FC Supra du Quebec in the Canadian Championship semifinal’s first leg on Tuesday evening, with Daniel Krutzen’s late equalizer in the 95th minute salvaging the result at Stade Boreale.
Supra took the lead in the 36th minute through Ibrahim Conde, showcasing their struggles to close out games once again. Despite the lead, Supra’s head coach, Nick Razzaghi, expressed disappointment at not securing the win but praised his team’s defensive solidity.
Both teams made significant lineup changes compared to their previous meeting in the Canadian Premier League just four days earlier. Forge, a consistent force in the CPL, took time to adjust but eventually displayed a performance more aligned with their competitive standards.
Forge’s head coach, Bobby Smyrniotis, emphasized the importance of avoiding complacency and acknowledged the challenge of competing for the championship. With the first leg concluded, the focus now shifts to the return leg at Hamilton Stadium.
Known for their dominance at home, Forge has established a strong record at Hamilton Stadium, losing only once this season across all competitions. The match began cautiously, with both teams initially reluctant to take risks, but Forge gradually asserted control while Supra relied on a solid defensive structure.
Supra capitalized on a swift counterattack in the 36th minute, with Conde converting a chance to give the hosts the lead. Despite Forge’s immediate response and continuous pressure in the second half, Supra’s defense struggled to cope with the relentless attacks.
Krutzen’s last-minute heroics, courtesy of a well-placed free kick from Bekker, secured the crucial equalizer for Forge. The result sets up an intriguing second leg scheduled for September 15 in Hamilton, promising another intense clash between the two sides.