Soccer in Canada has a rich history filled with unforgettable moments that have shaped the sport’s future in the country. Among the cities contributing to this legacy, Hamilton has played a significant role, hosting key events that have left an indelible mark on Canadian soccer. Let’s explore the top 5 moments in Canadian soccer history, with a special focus on how Hamilton and Forge FC have been at the forefront of this incredible journey.
Forge FC’s First CPL Championship (2019)
Hamilton’s very own Forge FC made history on November 2, 2019, by winning the inaugural Canadian Premier League (CPL) championship. The final was a two-legged affair against Cavalry FC, with the decisive match held at Tim Hortons Field. Forge FC clinched the title with a 1-0 victory, thanks to a goal by David Choinière. This triumph was more than just a win; it marked the birth of a new era in Canadian soccer. Forge FC’s victory solidified the team as a dominant force in the CPL, setting the stage for further success as they accumulated four CPL titles, establishing themselves as a powerhouse in Canadian soccer.
Canadian Men’s National Team vs. USA (2022 World Cup Qualifier)
On a cold January 30, 2022, Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton was the site of a historic World Cup qualifying match between the Canadian Men’s National Team and the United States. In front of a sold-out, passionate crowd, Canada secured a monumental 2-0 victory. Goals from Cyle Larin and Sam Adekugbe propelled Canada closer to qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, ending a 36-year drought. This match not only underscored Canada’s resurgence on the international stage but also showcased Hamilton’s enthusiastic support for the national team, further embedding the city into the fabric of Canadian soccer history.
Canadian Women’s National Team vs. Germany (June 10, 2018)
Hamilton has also been a key venue for the growth of women’s soccer in Canada. On June 10, 2018, the Canadian Women’s National Team faced off against Germany in an international friendly at Tim Hortons Field. This clash between two of the world’s top teams was more than just a friendly—it was a testament to the rising popularity and support for women’s soccer in Canada. The match attracted a large and fervent crowd, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for the women’s game in Hamilton and across the nation. It was a day that not only celebrated elite soccer but also inspired the next generation of female athletes in Canada.
Hamilton Steelers in the Canadian Soccer League (1980s-1990s)
Before Forge FC’s rise, the Hamilton Steelers were the city’s soccer pride, competing in the Canadian Soccer League during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Steelers were a competitive force, reaching the CSL finals multiple times, although they narrowly missed out on winning the league title. Despite not clinching the championship, the Hamilton Steelers laid a crucial foundation for the sport’s development in the region. Their legacy lives on, having paved the way for the emergence of teams like Forge FC and the broader growth of soccer in Hamilton.
Tim Hortons Field Hosting 2015 Pan Am Games Soccer
Hamilton took center stage on the international soccer scene during the 2015 Pan American Games, with Tim Hortons Field hosting both men’s and women’s soccer tournaments. The stadium was a hub of excitement, culminating in the bronze medal match of the men’s tournament, where Brazil triumphed over Panama. Hosting the Pan Am Games was a landmark moment for Hamilton, elevating its status as a key player in the soccer world and demonstrating the city’s ability to host major international sporting events. The success of these games further solidified Hamilton’s reputation as a soccer-loving city, committed to supporting the sport at all levels.
Inaugural Canadian Premier League Match: Forge FC vs. York9 FC (April 27, 2019)
The birth of the Canadian Premier League (CPL) marked a new chapter for soccer in Canada, and Hamilton played host to its very first match. On April 27, 2019, Forge FC faced York9 FC (now known as York United FC) at Tim Hortons Field in what would be a historic day for Canadian soccer. This inaugural CPL match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Forge FC’s Kadell Thomas scoring a crucial equalizer to secure a point for the home side. The match signaled the beginning of a new domestic league aimed at fostering Canadian talent and providing a platform for homegrown players to shine. The atmosphere was electric, with fans excited to witness history being made in their own city. This event not only put Hamilton on the national soccer map but also underscored Forge FC’s commitment to becoming one of the league’s premier clubs—an ambition they fulfilled just months later by winning the first CPL Championship.
From the early days of the Hamilton Steelers to the modern triumphs of Forge FC, Hamilton has become a vital part of Canadian soccer history. These top 5 moments not only highlight the city’s contributions to the sport but also showcase the passionate soccer community that continues to grow and thrive. As Forge FC continues to build on its legacy, Hamilton’s place in the annals of Canadian soccer history is firmly secured, with even greater moments sure to come.