A matchup between two teams on opposite ends of the standings—Forge unbeaten in 2025 and Vancouver with just two wins—seemed destined to be one-sided. Maybe Forge’s players saw the table and expected an easy night, but they hadn’t accounted for a much-improved Vancouver side.

The Hammers came out flat, and the Eagles took the game to them with a tactical approach. Vancouver looked solid at the back, and their slow build-up play drew the Hamiltonians’ defenders out of position, creating early chances on goal. The Eagles have scored nine times in their last three matches, but it was clear their priority was to prevent the CPL’s highest-scoring side from finding an offensive rhythm and turning the match into a free-flowing shootout.

In the first half, both teams had a few shots on goal, but most came from distance and did not threaten. In the 45th minute, Forge scored the only goal of the game with a perfectly placed header by Mo Babouli, who redirected the ball into the lower left corner of the Vancouver net.

With the Eagles now trailing by a goal, they played the second half with greater offensive emphasis and created several opportunities to equalize. Their increased pressure left them more exposed at the back, giving Forge chances to extend their lead.

Vancouver's new style of play is producing a much more entertaining brand of soccer that will hopefully draw more fans to their upcoming home games. Their performances have been exciting and offer great value for supporters in the Lower Mainland.

Up next for the Eagles is a visit to the nation's capital, where they're set to face Ottawa.

Forge gets set for one of its toughest tests of the year, facing Cavalry at Spruce Meadows.