CF Montréal is set to host Forge FC in the decisive second leg of the 2025 TELUS Canadian Championship quarter-final on Wednesday night at Stade Saputo. Montréal trails 1-0 on aggregate after losing the first leg in Hamilton on May 20 and must overturn this deficit to reach the semi-finals. If the aggregate score is tied after 90 minutes, the match will be decided by a penalty shootout, as the away goals rule does not apply[1][2][3].
This clash marks the fifth consecutive year that Montréal and Forge FC have met in the Canadian Championship. Montréal won the first three encounters, but Forge eliminated them in the quarter-finals last year, intensifying the rivalry. Forge arrives in Montréal with confidence, buoyed by a goal from Brian Wright in the first leg and an unbeaten CPL season so far[1][2].
For Montréal, who are enduring a poor MLS season (3-5-13), the Canadian Championship represents their best opportunity for silverware and a morale boost. Their forward Prince Owusu has been in form, scoring in four straight matches, and his performance will be crucial. Player availability remains a question, with possible returns for Canadians Joel Waterman and Nathan Saliba, while Forge’s Mo Babouli and Alessandro Hojabrpour are nearing fitness[1][3].
Forge FC, who have not lost in 15 matches and have won their previous two encounters against Montréal, are aiming for their first Voyageurs’ Cup and see a golden opportunity with only one MLS team potentially left in the semi-finals[1][4]. Both teams are expected to announce their lineups an hour before kickoff. The winner will advance to the semi-finals, with the next round’s matchups decided by a new draw[3].