Forge FC has officially earned their place in the prestigious 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup after winning the CPL Shield for finishing top of the table in the Canadian Premier League. The appearance in the competition marks the Hamilton-based club’s third appearance on the biggest stage for North and Central American and Caribbean club football. This tournament, formerly known as the Concacaf Champions League (until 2023), brings together elite teams from across the region to compete for continental supremacy.
Forge FC has previously graced this tournament in 2022 and 2024, facing off against some of the biggest names in football, including Liga MX powerhouses like C.D. Guadalajara (Chivas) and Cruz Azul. Now, they are set to once again challenge the best in the region and raise the bar for Canadian football.
Forge FC’s Continental Journey: Building a Legacy
Forge FC’s journey to the Concacaf Champions Cup has been nothing short of remarkable. In their previous appearances, they gained invaluable experience competing against top-tier opposition. The club made its debut on the international stage through the Concacaf League, where they impressed by participating for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021. This tournament acted as a springboard, allowing Forge FC to qualify for the Concacaf Champions League (now rebranded as the Concacaf Champions Cup) in 2022, solidifying its reputation as a force in Canadian and international football.
With every appearance, Forge FC has shown the growth and resilience of the Canadian Premier League (CPL), pushing the limits and proving they can go toe-to-toe with clubs from renowned leagues, such as Liga MX and Major League Soccer (MLS).
Exciting Matchups Await: The Potential of Facing Global Superstars
The 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup promises to be an exhilarating chapter in Forge FC’s history. As they prepare to compete in this prestigious tournament, the club has the opportunity to face some of the biggest names in North and Central American football. Potential opponents include the likes of Club América, Tigres UANL, CF Monterrey from Mexico’s Liga MX, and Sporting Kansas City, Columbus Crew, Colorado Rapids, LA Galaxy, or Inter Miami CF from MLS.
One of the most thrilling prospects for Forge FC fans is the potential of hosting global superstars at Tim Hortons Field. International football legends such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Olivier Giroud, André-Pierre Gignac, and Chicharito Hernández could grace Hamilton with their presence, making it a truly historic moment for Canadian football.
The Road Ahead: Forge’s Pursuit of Domestic and International Glory
In addition to their place in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, Forge FC will also be competing for a spot in the 2024 CPL Final. The winner of the CPL Final not only claims the coveted league title but also secures a direct berth to the Concacaf Champions Cup. Should Forge FC achieve the remarkable feat of winning the CPL double—both the league and the championship—the second-place team in the 2024 CPL regular season standings will earn the league’s second berth in the continental competition.
This presents an exciting opportunity for Forge to assert dominance both domestically and internationally, continuing to lead the charge for Canadian football on the global stage.
Forge FC’s Continental Ambitions
With a ticket to the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup in hand, Forge FC is primed to once again represent Canadian soccer with pride and passion. Their experience, growing pedigree, and fearless approach to competing with the region’s top clubs make them a formidable contender. As they prepare for yet another campaign in this elite tournament, Forge FC is setting new standards for the CPL, giving fans much to look forward to both at home and abroad.
Get ready, Hamilton—the international spotlight is once again shining on Tim Hortons Field, and Forge FC is ready to make its mark!