The National Soccer League (NSL) officially kicked off its inaugural season this past week, marking a historic moment for women’s soccer in Canada. With two thrilling matches and over 30,000 fans combined in attendance, the league’s debut highlighted the growing appetite for professional women’s sports across the country.
Vancouver Rise FC Make History at BC Place
Vancouver Rise FC 1 – 0 Calgary Wild FC
In the league’s opening match, Vancouver Rise FC hosted Calgary Wild FC in front of a buzzing crowd at BC Place. From the opening whistle, Vancouver took control of the game, dictating the tempo and maintaining the majority of possession. Their early pressure paid off when forward Holly Ward was brought down in the box, earning the home side a penalty.
Stepping up to the spot, Canadian international and fan-favorite Quinn calmly slotted home the penalty to score the first goal in NSL history, sending the home crowd into celebration. Ward continued to be a threat on the left wing, narrowly missing a second goal after her shot ricocheted off the post.
Calgary struggled to generate consistent offensive pressure, but standout performances—particularly from goalkeeper Stephanie Bukovec—kept the scoreline close. Despite some promising counterattacks, Calgary couldn’t find an equalizer. Vancouver held firm to secure the first-ever win in NSL history, cementing their place in the league’s legacy.
Montreal Roses FC Upset AFC Toronto at BMO Field
Montreal Roses FC 1 – 0 AFC Toronto
Three days later, a sold-out BMO Field set the stage for the second NSL match as AFC Toronto, considered title favorites, took on Montreal Roses FC. The game got off to a dramatic start when Toronto midfielder Nyota Katembo misplayed a back pass in just the second minute. Montreal co-captain Tanya Boychuk pounced on the mistake, calmly finishing into the bottom right corner to give Montreal an early lead.
Despite the early setback, Toronto responded with a flurry of attacking chances. Midfielder Emma Regan came close with a long-range strike that forced a fine save from Montreal keeper Anna Karpenko. The pressure intensified in the second half as Toronto pushed for an equalizer. Regan hit the crossbar in the 47th minute, and shortly after, both Esther Okoronkwo and Regan had back-to-back chances denied by a stunning double save from Karpenko.
Montreal defended resiliently for the remainder of the match and held on for a statement win—claiming their first three points of the season and handing Toronto a surprising opening defeat.
A Promising Future for the NSL
Matchday 1 has offered a glimpse into the exciting future of the NSL. From historic goals to dramatic saves, Canada’s new professional women’s league has launched with energy and purpose. With strong attendance, passionate fanbases, and competitive play, the NSL is already proving it has a strong foundation to build on.
The league now turns its attention to Matchday 2, which promises more compelling fixtures:
Upcoming Matches – Matchday 2
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Halifax Tides FC vs Calgary Wild FC
Venue: Wanderers Grounds, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Sunday, April 27, 2025
Ottawa Rapid FC vs AFC Toronto
Venue: TD Place Stadium, Ottawa, Ontario
Vancouver Rise FC vs Montreal Roses FC
Venue: Swangard Stadium, Burnaby, British Columbia
