2022 CPL Final: Tactical Analysis of Forge FC’s Commanding Win Over Atlético Ottawa
The Canadian Premier League’s 2022 season wrapped up with a dramatic finale as Forge FC clinched their third championship title in four years, defeating first-place Atlético Ottawa. This match wasn’t just about lifting a trophy; it was a showcase of tactical discipline, effective defensive organization, and possession-based football that ultimately set Forge apart. Below, we break down how both sides approached the final, where the game was decided, and why Forge once again stood atop the CPL.
Atlético Ottawa’s 4-1-4-1 Formation: Ambition Falls Short in the Final Third
Atlético Ottawa entered the final sticking to their familiar 4-1-4-1, making a key change by starting Malcolm Shaw as the central striker. Shaw’s physicality was meant to offer a target against Forge’s commanding center-backs Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson and Daniel Krutzen. However, Shaw struggled throughout, barely impacting the attack and finishing with only nine completed passes and no shots—highlighting Ottawa’s inability to link midfield to attack.
The main creative outlet came from Ballou Tabla, who posed a threat in transition, particularly when Forge’s right-sided defenders picked up early yellow cards. This left room to combine with Maxim Tissot and Zakaria Bahous down the left. Still, Forge’s compact defensive structure repeatedly stifled Ottawa, with defenders intercepting crosses and clearing danger before any real threat developed.
Ollie Bassett, Ottawa’s playmaker, was tightly marked and, although he managed several passes into advanced positions, the midfield unit as a whole couldn’t break down Forge’s disciplined lines. Late tactical changes saw Keven Aleman brought on to add creativity, pushing Bassett further forward, but these adjustments left gaps that Forge exploited ruthlessly in transition.
Forge FC’s 4-3-3: Mastery in Possession and Transitional Defense
Forge FC maintained their established 4-3-3 system, making one notable change with Noah Jensen stepping into midfield for the suspended Kyle Bekker. Jensen capably filled the creative role, often drifting left and helping shape Forge’s attack into a fluid 2-3-5 structure during build-up, with Alessandro Hojabrpour anchoring in midfield.
Central to Forge’s strategy was the ball progression from deep by Krutzen and Achinioti-Jönsson. Their ability to switch play and break Ottawa’s press helped dictate the tempo, repeatedly stretching Ottawa’s low defensive block. Tristan Borges and David Choinière benefitted, finding space in the half-channels and receiving service in dangerous areas.
Defensively, Forge’s pressing and recovery were exemplary. Whenever they lost possession, players like Hojabrpour and Rezart Rama immediately closed down spaces, compacting the pitch and cutting off Ottawa’s transition, especially limiting Tabla. Forge’s shape after regaining possession, with wingbacks tucking in and holding midfielders screening the backline, neutralized Ottawa’s main attacking threats throughout the match.
Key Tactical Moments That Shaped the Game
– **Ottawa’s High Press and Forge’s Calm Under Pressure:** Ottawa pressed aggressively early, but Achinioti-Jönsson’s composure and smart passing carved paths through the pressure, allowing Forge to bypass the first line and build from the back without panicking.
– **Yellow Cards and Defensive Adjustments:** When Forge’s right-sided defenders went into the book, Ottawa attempted to overload that flank. Despite this, Forge adapted by staying compact and providing 2v1 cover, preventing Ottawa from capitalizing.
– **Midfield Changes Opened Gaps:** González’s decision to advance Abdoul Sissoko and shift Aleman and Bassett forward stretched Ottawa’s shape, opening central gaps. Forge quickly exploited this, with Metusala’s introduction sparking the move that led to Choinière’s decisive second goal.
Player Performances Highlight: Hojabrpour’s Influence in Both Phases
Alessandro Hojabrpour was central to Forge’s control and execution. He not only opened the scoring with a well-timed header from Borges’ delivery—becoming the first player to score in consecutive CPL finals—but also provided key ball recoveries and defensive coverage throughout.
Hojabrpour’s stats underline his importance: he won three of four tackles, intercepted numerous passes, and made 14 entries into the attacking third. His anticipation and ability to shield the backline gave Forge the foundation to launch quick, decisive counters and stay organized in defense.
Conclusion: Forge FC’s Tactical Discipline Secures Another Title
Forge FC’s triumph in the 2022 CPL final was a testament to their blend of tactical intelligence, adaptability, and individual performances at key moments. Atlético Ottawa, despite topping the regular season table, struggled to adapt their plan A and failed to unlock Forge’s defense. The Hammers, under coach Bobby Smyrniotis, proved why they remain the gold standard in CPL, executing a game plan that combined proactive possession, rapid defensive transitions, and clinical finishing when it mattered most.
With three championships in four seasons, Forge FC have set a high bar for the rest of the league heading into the next campaign, challenging rivals to match their tactical evolution and consistency.
