Leg 1 between the two Ontario sides proved action-packed, as Forge and Atlético Ottawa split the points 2-2, leaving everything to be played for next Saturday at Tim Hortons Field. Here are the talking points from Sunday's well-fought match-up.

Both clubs bring plenty of energy and contrasting tactics

Neither manager can say their side didn't come out and give it their all in Sunday's bout. Both teams looked like they came out of a cannon from the opening whistle. It seemed first-year manager Gustavo Leal and his staff wanted his side to press Forge out of possession and, when in possession, move the ball through quick passes in succession. They also looked to exploit the 2026 Voyageurs Cup champions through long balls sent in behind from the likes of Sergei Koslovsky and Manny Aparicio for their attacking players to chase. This approach proved fruitful, producing goals from Diego Gutiérrez and Ballou Tabla. However, it also left Ottawa exposed defensively, allowing Forge to capitalize on the spaces left behind by an aggressive Atleti side. The Hammers appeared content to retain possession when possible, although Ottawa ultimately held 59% of the ball, while looking to exploit those openings whenever they presented themselves. Forge couldn't find those gaps through open play, but they found the net through excellent set-piece work. With the points shared heading into the second leg, it will be interesting to see whether both clubs stick with the tactical approaches we witnessed in the opening encounter. Both clubs worked tirelessly, played with immense passion, and will surely have left both managers proud of their respective performances. With a place in the semi-finals on the line, neither team will be looking to leave anything in reserve, and we could very well see a similar contest when the two sides meet again next week.

Strong finishing display, frustrating match for attacking players

Despite strong midfield and defensive performances from both teams, their respective attacking players did not enjoy quite as much success. With the exception of Ballou Tabla, the forward players were unable to find the scoresheet, leaving plenty to be desired from an attacking standpoint. It took clinical finishes from more defensively minded players — Anthony Aromatario and Marko Jevremović for Forge, alongside Diego Gutiérrez for Ottawa — to produce goals in Sunday's match-up. The attacking players from both sides will be looking to change that narrative in the second leg, hoping to bury a chance or two and become the hero for their respective clubs as they look to secure a place in the semi-finals.

Honourable mentions from the match-up

For Forge, Noah Jensen showed a high football IQ and delivered some dangerous set-piece deliveries, including the ball that led to Anthony Aromatario's opening goal — who, speaking of which, deserves plenty of credit for his work rate and contribution to Forge's performance. Rezart Rama defended exceptionally well, clearing a couple of dangerous balls from crossing the goal line and helping keep the Hammers in the contest. Forge goalkeeper Dimitry Bertaud also deserves credit, as the Canadian Championship hero produced some fantastic saves throughout the match, with little he could have done to prevent either of the two goals he conceded. Finally, for the boys in orange, Marko Jevremović. Take a bow after that wonderfully executed free-kick finish in the 35th minute. A moment of real quality from the former Serbian international.

For Atlético Ottawa, Ballou Tabla enjoyed a strong outing, capping it off with an inch-perfect finish into the goalkeeper's left side. Joaquim Coulanges had a difficult start but gradually grew into the game as the minutes passed, giving Forge's left side plenty of bother. The young Canadian winger was eventually rewarded with an assist for his efforts. The centre-back pairing of Julian Dunn and Sergei Koslovsky also deserve recognition for their work in clearing dangerous balls away from Kalongo's goal and limiting Forge's attacking opportunities. Their defensive contributions will need to continue, with perhaps more shots incoming when the second leg begins in front of the Forge faithful.