Atlético Ottawa won a third consecutive home game securing a hot winning streak under the scorching sun in front of a raucous crowd at TD Place on Sunday. Goals from Ollie Bassett and Zach Verhoven ensured Head Coach Carlos González’s side leapfrogged their opponents on the day, Valour FC, and are now within touching distance of Halifax Wanderers in the last playoff position.

KEY MOMENTS

• Atlético Ottawa beat Valour FC 2-0 at TD Place.
  • Ollie Bassett opened the score in the 25th minute from the penalty spot after Valour striker Antony Novak brought down Carl Haworth.
  • There were chances at both ends throughout the first period but neither team could break through, with the best opportunity coming for Ottawa five minutes from the break.
    • Bassett’s effort was well saved before Swiss striker Rubén del Campo was denied a debut goal with a goal-line clearance.
  • A flurry of chances in the second half followed, but the game was put to bed in the dying minutes as Zach Verhoven cooly finished off a quick break from a Carl Haworth assist.
    • Sunday was Haworth’s 34th birthday.
• New signings Del Campo and Alberto Zapater played 45 minutes each, with the veteran Spanish midfielder replacing the young striker at the break.
• Atlético Ottawa put on a dominant attacking display, outshooting their opponents 17-8 (11-1 on target).
  • Only Bassett had more shots (5) than high-flying wing-back Abou Sacko (4)
  • Sacko, who started the match at left-back, was deployed further up the field in the second period providing a constant outlet and threat.
    • The 20-year-old Frenchman had the most shots on target (3), the highest chances (3) and the most final third entries (8) of any Ottawa player.
    • Not shying away from his defensive duties, Sacko won 100% of his tackles (4/4) – the most of any Atleti player.
• Valour FC goalkeeper Rayane Yesli continued to distinguish himself, making a number of crucial saves to stop Ottawa from putting the game to bed much sooner.
  • The 23-year-old made six saves, taking his total to a league-leading 48 across 14 matches.
• Atlético Ottawa faces a quick turnaround with a trip to Alberta, facing Cavalry FC on Wednesday evening.
  • Ottawa returns for its final home game against expansion side Vancouver FC on Saturday, July 9, 2023.
• Attendance: 5,003