The inaugural season of the Northern Super League (NSL) concluded on Saturday, November 15, 2025, marked by a financial commitment from the federal government, a weather delay, and plenty of on-field excitement. The Vancouver Rise triumphed in a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over AFC Toronto, with the final match held at BMO Field in Toronto and attended by an announced crowd of 12,429. NSL president Christina Litz presented the Diana B. Matheson Cup, brought to the pitch by two female Mounties, to the victorious team.
Vancouver captain Samantha Chang expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This league, it’s been a long time coming… When I heard about it, I knew that it was something I wanted to be a part of.” She highlighted the milestones achieved throughout the season, which included playing in the league’s inaugural match and now winning its first trophy. Vancouver's coach Anja Heiner-Moller praised her team’s resilience, noting their determination to overcome challenges and secure their spot in the playoffs and ultimately the final.
Despite being outshot by Toronto, who led the league with 42 goals during the regular season, Vancouver showcased their grit. They managed only eight shots, with three on target, while Toronto outshot them with 16 attempts and eight shots on goal. Vancouver goalkeeper Morgan McAslan played a pivotal role in the win, receiving the player of the match award for her outstanding performance.
Toronto took the lead in the first half, with forward Kaylee Hunter scoring in the 20th minute, capitalizing on a quick counter-attack initiated by Victoria Pickett. Hunter’s goal was notable as it was Toronto’s first goal in their third match at BMO Field, where they had previously lost all two outings. However, Vancouver equalized in the 54th minute following an own goal by Toronto, before Holly Ward put the Rise ahead in the 68th minute, showcasing the team’s capability to turn the game around.
The match took a dramatic turn during the 38th minute when a lightning warning prompted a 40-minute delay, forcing players off the pitch and fans to seek refuge in the concourses. Following the delay, Vancouver capitalized on a corner kick taken by Nikki Stanton that resulted in an own goal, leveling the score. This own goal demonstrated the impact of Toronto’s makeshift defensive lineup, as midfielder Victoria Pickett was filling in due to injuries.
Vancouver, with a record of 11 wins, 8 losses, and 6 draws, finished the regular season just behind Toronto, who finished with 16 wins, 6 losses, and 3 draws, solidifying their position at the top with a significant 12-point lead. Following the loss, Toronto coach Marko Milanovic acknowledged his team’s effort, admitting they had numerous chances but failed to convert them into goals.
As the final approached, the weather posed challenges reminiscent of prior games in the season, including a snow delay during the semifinals. The NSL had initially opened on April 16, 2025, with Vancouver defeating the Calgary Wild in front of 14,018 fans at B.C. Place Stadium. Toronto had suffered a 1-0 defeat against Montreal Roses just days later at BMO Field, attracting an audience of 14,518.
Ultimately, the NSL final was a culmination of seven months of competitive football. The federal government's commitment of up to $5.45 million for the league's growth was announced prior to the finals, providing a promising outlook for the league's future. With Vancouver overcoming Toronto after facing immense pressure, the match served as a foundation for future seasons and exemplified the thrill and unpredictability of the inaugural NSL campaign.
