Forge FC’s Tactical Evolution: Impact of New Signings in a 3-0 Victory Over Pacific FC
The stands at Tim Hortons Field were alive with energy as Forge FC produced a commanding display, dispatching league leaders Pacific FC with a 3-0 win. This victory not only showcased the dominance and cohesion of Bobby Smyrniotis’ squad, but also highlighted the impressive integration of recent signings Malik Owolabi-Belewu and Rezart Rama. In this analysis, we break down Forge’s tactical masterclass and examine how these newcomers have contributed to the team’s recent upturn in form.
Strategic Shape: Adapted 4-3-3 and Player Roles
Despite injury setbacks, Forge FC maintained consistency by adapting their formation between a 4-3-3 and 4-1-4-1, achieving a stable balance across the pitch. With Dom Samuel and Garven Metusala sidelined, Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson distinguished himself at centre-back, orchestrating defensive organization and dictating play from deep. His transition into the back line created space for Alessandro Hojabrpour to thrive in a defensive midfield ‘number six’ role, acting as a key link in both buildup and rest defense.
Midfield dynamo Aboubacar Sissoko, previously a mainstay at right-back, transitioned to a box-to-box role. His freedom to advance was made possible by the arrival of Albanian international Rezart Rama. Originally recruited from Nottingham Forest’s U23 side as a central defender, Rama quickly adapted as a dynamic right-back. His tactical intelligence and smart positioning—supporting wide attacks or reinforcing a back three—have provided Forge greater flexibility in buildup play and defensive coverage.
On the opposite flank, Ashtone Morgan reinforced the attack from left-back, supporting the likes of Tristan Borges and David Choiniere as they drifted centrally to exploit spaces between the lines. The defensive core benefitted further from newcomer Malik Owolabi-Belewu, a former TFC reserve who has transitioned into a composed, ball-playing centre-back since joining in April. His ability to step into midfield carries play forward, complementing Achinioti-Jönsson’s distribution and defensive awareness.
Leading the offensive charge, Woobens Pacius—operating as the central striker—turned in a standout performance with a goal and an assist. Supported by the relentless energy of Kyle Bekker in midfield and the creative spark of Tristan Borges and Choiniere higher up, Forge’s attacking unit functioned seamlessly.
Controlling the Game: Possession, Tempo, and Attacking Patterns
Entering the match against the top-ranked Pacific, Forge FC set out to dictate tempo from the opening whistle. Maintaining 57% possession, the Hammers pressed their advantage with two quick goals inside the opening 13 minutes, catching Pacific off-balance and struggling in the heat.
Forge’s game plan focused on methodically bypassing Pacific’s press through quick exchanges between the goalkeeper and left centre-back before advancing centrally to Hojabrpour. The precision and speed of these transitions enabled Forge to frequently switch play, stretching Pacific’s defensive shape and creating overloads in wide areas.
Attacking sequences often adopted a 3-2-5 structure: either Rama or Morgan surged forward to join the front line, with Sissoko operating high alongside Pacius. This allowed Forge’s wingers and full-backs to interchange, opening gaps for late runs—such as Morgan’s well-timed move into the left-half space to finish the opening goal. The team’s versatility was further evident as ball-playing defenders like Owolabi-Belewu clipped passes over the defense for attackers running into space, while Hojabrpour completed 62 out of 66 passes (94% accuracy) and excelled in long-range distribution.
Defensive Resilience: Compactness and Organization
Forge’s resurgence owes much to improved defensive structure, with the addition of Rama and Owolabi-Belewu boosting stability at the back. Typically defending in a compact 4-1-4-1 that shifts to 4-5-1 as needed, Forge’s narrow press and well-drilled high line limited Pacific’s attacking options. Even when Pacific probed with switches or targeted the flanks, wingers such as Borges diligently tracked back, while Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson and Triston Henry provided effective cover when space was exposed.
Keeper Henry demonstrated quick decision-making, racing off his line to cut out through balls. Forge’s collective defensive effort was notable—they won 73% of aerial duels and 65% of tackles. Pressing started from the front, with Pacius and Borges stifling Pacific’s buildup and forcing turnovers in advantageous positions. The discipline demonstrated throughout the squad, particularly in Rama’s one-on-one duels and Hojabrpour’s wide coverage, has been pivotal in a run that includes four clean sheets from nine matches in all competitions.
Summary: The Road Ahead for Forge FC
Reeling from an early season injury crisis, Forge FC have rapidly re-established their identity as a dominant force—thanks in large part to astute new additions and positional versatility. The recruits, Rama and Owolabi-Belewu, have slotted in seamlessly, elevating both defensive assurance and attacking potential. With stars like Hojabrpour and Sissoko thriving in new roles, Forge now boast a well-balanced system capable of both fluid attacking football and disciplined defending. As the season progresses, their tactical flexibility and depth make them one of the most formidable challenges for any opponent in the Canadian Premier League.
