A Canadian soccer championship was decided under extraordinary circumstances this weekend, as a historic blizzard transformed the pitch into a winter spectacle and produced a moment of unforgettable brilliance.
In conditions more akin to a snow globe than a soccer field, Atlético Ottawa claimed the Canadian Premier League title with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Cavalry FC. The match, played in temperatures plunging to -8°C, was repeatedly interrupted as crews worked to clear accumulating snow from the lines, with goalkeepers even resorting to shovels to maintain their goal areas.
The visitors took the lead midway through the first half from the penalty spot, with the scorer celebrating with a slide through the fresh powder. The defining response came just seven minutes later. Mexican midfielder David Rodríguez executed a spectacular overhead kick that crashed off the crossbar and into the net, a strike instantly celebrated by fans online as the “icicle kick.”
Rodríguez would prove the hero again in extra time, delicately lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to secure the winning goal and etch his name into league lore.
Players described the experience as unparalleled. “I’ve played in snow before, but nothing like this,” said one veteran. “The depth made it incredibly challenging to control the ball. It was the same for both sides, so no complaints—just a unique and memorable chapter for the final.”
The victory marks a significant achievement for the Ottawa club, which joined the league just a few years ago. The match will be remembered not only for its high stakes but for the surreal, wintry battle in which it was contested.