The Vancouver Rise have secured a spot in the first-ever Northern Super League Final by triumphing over the Ottawa Rapid in a penalty shootout on Saturday. Sofia Hagman’s successful penalty kick in the sixth round sealed the victory for the Rise, as Ottawa’s Julia Benati missed her spot kick, saved by Rise goalkeeper Morgan McAslan.
McAslan’s heroics included another crucial penalty save earlier in the shootout, denying Susanne Haaland’s attempt in the fifth round. A subsequent penalty by Latifah Abdu kept Vancouver in contention, setting the stage for Hagman’s decisive goal.
Ottawa had taken a 2-0 lead in the match and a 3-2 aggregate advantage with goals from Delaney Baie Pridham and Melanie Forbes. However, Holly Ward’s late equalizer in the 85th minute for Vancouver forced the game into extra time.
The Rapid’s head coach, Katrine Pederson, expressed mixed emotions after the intense match, acknowledging the disappointment of the loss but also praising her team’s efforts and resilience. Vancouver, initially leading 2-1 from the first leg, displayed dominance in possession, shots on target, and accurate passes during the second leg.
With their place secured in the NSL Final on Nov. 15, the Rise will await the winner of the semifinal between AFC Toronto and the Montreal Roses. Desiree Scott, the Rapid’s captain, announced her retirement post-match, with an attendance of 3,068 spectators.
To watch the full match replay, click here: [Link to Full Match Replay].
