Match Preview 4: Atlético Ottawa vs. Cavalry FC

It seems strange to be talking about soccer when the talk of the sports world is what’s been happening in the African-American community, especially in light of the players in the NHL, NBA, WNBA, MLS, and MLB forcing the postponement of games by going on strike.

The CPL players released a joint statement in light of these events. Ben Fisk, among other players around the league released the following statement:

I have noticed that the CPL has done a decent job with engaging some of their players to share stories in support of the movement. One video comes to mind from the York9.

I know the league is still young. But I hope the league can use the platform it does has to continue this conversation and show actionable initiatives in their communities; and in Canada, this resonates particularly loud in the Indigenous communities among others. Statements and moments of silence are good, but for many, they can’t afford any more moments of silence.

Alas, the game is going on as planned, and with no appropriate segue, Atlético Ottawa will have it tough against the top ranked Cavalry FC today. Cavalry are coming off a hard fought 2-1 win against the Wanderers on Sunday to keep them 2 points clear of Forge FC.

Meanwhile, Ottawa squandered a two goal lead with a late game collapse against Edmonton FC. Despite allowing 2 goals in the final two minutes, Ottawa played a nearly complete 90 minute game. However, if that wasn’t enough against Edmonton, it surely won’t be enough against Cavalry.

I said before last game that Edmonton was a must win. The tie still kept them within reach of a top 4 finish, but that means they will have to come out with an upset against one of the top two teams: Cavalry or Forge. An upset today especially could do wonders for the team’s confidence. The margin for error for the rest of the season is dwindling.

Ottawa will have to start off just as quickly and play an organized and disciplined game. Cavalry does not concede many chances, so Ottawa will have to take advantage of their chances. They will have access to all of their squad for the first time since the opening game of the season. It was reported that they will go with the same starting lineup that they did against York9. This means that with Kapor’s return from suspension, Facchineri will start the game on the bench.

McKendry will also make way for Viti to return to the starting lineup. Viti did not see any action last game after playing a full 90 minutes in each of the first two games. McKendry did suffer what appeared to be a groin injury against Edmonton, so hopefully him being a substitute is indication that he is not suffering any lingering effects.

Pre-Match Thoughts:

• Acuña had a monster game against Edmonton which secured him Man of the Match and Squad of the Week honors for the second time this season. We will need more of that from him today.
• Zabal has played well, especially against Valour FC, he kept his team in it before the ship began to sink. I am never one to blame the goalie for anything, but I do wish he just made one more save to keep the victory against Edmonton. Especially on one of the goals, better communication between him and his defender would have prevented the goal. The team may need him to make some saves he has no business making today.
• There was some rumblings that the league would support any player that doesn’t want to play in support for the Black Lives Matter Movement. It doesn’t look like any of the players from Ottawa’s side will be going on strike for this game.
• I am looking forward to seeing how the team performs with Kapor. Though Facchineri was mostly quiet last game, I am inclined to think I like how he fits at centre-back a little more.
• How many subs will Mista use today? +/- 2
• Kickoff is at 1PM; stream the action live on One Soccer.

Squad Stats:

Player Stats: