AFC Toronto tops Montreal Roses 2-1 as Hunter and Small score first-half goals, extending their NSL lead to six points.
Hunter, Small Lead AFC Toronto Past Montreal Roses 2-1
Strong Start Secures the Lead
AFC Toronto strengthened their grip on the Northern Super League’s top spot with a 2-1 victory over Montreal Roses FC on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Saputo Stadium in Montreal. The win lifts Toronto to 31 points, six ahead of second-place Montreal.
Key Goals Before Halftime
Nikayla Small opened the scoring in the 24th minute, finishing a precise through ball from Sarah Stratigakis on a swift counterattack. Just 13 minutes later, 17-year-old Kaylee Hunter unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, netting her ninth goal of the season and doubling Toronto’s advantage.
Montreal’s Response Falls Short
Montreal’s Stephanie Hill narrowed the deficit in first-half stoppage time, converting a Latifah Abdu corner. Despite increased second-half pressure, the Roses couldn’t find an equalizer. Montreal now sits at 25 points with one game in hand.
League Standings Impact
The result marks Toronto’s 10th win of the season and evens the season series at two wins apiece between the clubs. Their final regular-season clash is set for October 18 in Toronto, a matchup that could have major playoff implications.
Elsewhere in the League
In Ottawa, Jackie Sawicki’s 77th-minute strike earned Calgary Wild FC a 1-0 victory over Ottawa Rapid FC, keeping Calgary in fifth place while Ottawa holds third. Meanwhile, Halifax Tides and Vancouver Rise battled to a scoreless draw in Halifax, with goalkeepers Anika Toth and Morgan McAslan each securing clean sheets.
What’s Next
Toronto will aim to maintain their lead as the NSL heads into its final stretch, while Montreal looks to close the gap with their game in hand. Both sides remain strong contenders for the championship heading into the fall.
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