Preview: Atlético Ottawa at Cavalry FC September 24

September 22, 2022 – Canadian Premier League (CPL) – Atletico Ottawa News Release

As we edge closer to the end of the 2022 Canadian Premier League regular season, Atlético Ottawa have just three games left in their calendar as the team jets off to Calgary, AB for a top-of-the-table clash with Cavalry FC (5:30 PM ET, live on OneSoccer).

Head Coach Carlos González’s side came out victorious during the last match-up in Alberta (winning 3-0 in a spectacular defensive display) and, should Ottawa win on Saturday, their place in the CPL playoffs will be confirmed.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Saturday’s kick-off.

Atlético Ottawa remain top of the CPL standings following their 1-1 draw away to Valour FC.

With 42 points from 25 games, Ottawa currently only need three more points to clinch a playoff position.

Cavalry FC are in second place (41 points from 25 games).

In Winnipeg on Sunday, midfielder Ollie Bassett scored a highlight reel goal straight from a corner kick to equalize in the 78th minute (which has been trending on global soccer social media outlets, inc. Bleacher Report, MARCA and more).

The goal, known as an Olimpico (and dubbed as an Olliempico), was Bassett’s 8th of the season stretching his lead at the top of Atlético’s goalscoring chart.

The 24-year-old was also named to the Canadian Premier League’s ‘Team of the Week’ for the ninth time in 2022.

Head Coach Tommy Wheeldon Jr. and his side return to Spruce Meadows for the first time since August 27, 2022, ending a three-game run away from home.

Cavalry have won three of their last five home games (with two defeats coming at the hands of York United and Atlético).

Wheeldon Jr.’s team can clinch their place in the 2022 playoffs if:

They beat Atlético Ottawa;

Valour FC fail to beat York United (Friday, Sep 23, 7:30 PM ET).

Ottawa have proven a thorn in Cavalry’s side this season (2W-1D-0L), including a statement 3-0 victory at Spruce Meadows just over a month ago.

Goals from Keven Alemán, Brian Wright and Ollie Bassett secured three massive points in the playoff race.

Record head-to-head (all-time): 5W-1D-1L; 13 goals scored, 6 goals conceded.

QUOTES

Malcolm Shaw, Atlético Ottawa Forward

“It was a great feeling [getting back on the field] after being out for so long. Coming into these last few games, with the importance that they have, it’s great to see the team getting back into full fitness, I’m just happy to be back on the pitch and able to compete. We’re preparing really well going over some new tactics and, come game day, we’ll be ready to execute.”

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