9/2 - Semifinals

Semifinals Leg 1

Canadian Championship action resumes on Wednesday, September 2nd when CF Montréal takes on Vancouver Whitecaps in BC Place for leg 1 of the semifinals. Vancouver look to continue their dominance in this competition, having won the last 4 editions. Montréal, on the other hand, haven't lifted the Voyageurs Cup since 2021, and haven't even made an appearance at this stage of the tournament since 2023. On the other side of the bracket, Forge FC and Supra du Québec, two Canadian Premier League outfits, played to a 1-1 draw in Québec in the first leg. Whoever advances between Montréal and Vancouver will have a great opportunity to add a trophy to their ranks - while qualifying for the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup - so there is a lot at stake in British Colombia tonight.

Vancouver Whitecaps have been ruthless in their last two outings, scoring 8 goals while conceding none. After a frustrating return to MLS play, where the absence of Sebastian Berhalter was tangible, the 'Caps look back to their best. It's no coincidence that their best attackers are all on the field. Ryan Gauld and Thomas Müller have developed chemistry and getting them both on the field from the jump with a healthy Brian White has Vancouver looking like the dynamic side that made MLS Cup last year.

On the other side, CF Montréal have mostly struggled in MLS play. Ghanaian striker Prince Owusu has been outstanding in spite of their disappointing league campaign. With 13 goals and 6 assists in 21 MLS appearances, Owusu has contributed to nearly 2/3 of his team's goals. Owusu brings a lot more to the table than box score numbers. His strong hold up play and darting runs into the channels provide a reliable outlet for his teammates. Another source of positivity this season has been midseason acquisition Dani Pereira. The defensive midfielder's ground coverage and ability to dictate the tempo of the game provides an element of control which the rest of Montréal's midfield corps sorely lacks. CF Montréal are unbeaten in the Venezuelan's five starts for the club. Montréal will need Owusu and Pereira to be at their very best to head back to Montréal with the advantage in the series.