Atlético Ottawa Hosts Vancouver FC in 2026 CPL Home Opener at TD Place

The wait is over. This Sunday at 1 p.m., the defending Canadian Premier League champions, Atlético Ottawa, return to TD Place for the first time since their unforgettable 2025 CPL Final triumph.

It promises to be more than just a match; it’s a celebration.

Last season, Atlético Ottawa reached the pinnacle of Canadian club football, capturing the CPL title in a campaign defined by resilience, flair, and a deep connection to the city. That bond will be on full display once again at TD Place, where the atmosphere has become one of the most electric in the league. From the supporters’ section to the families filling the stands, game day in the capital has evolved into a must-attend experience.

And while the offseason brought change, with key players moving on, the excitement surrounding this squad has not dipped. If anything, it has intensified.

Atlético enters Sunday sitting fifth in the table with three points through three matches, still finding their rhythm early in the 2026 campaign. Their most recent outing, however, offered a glimpse of what this team can be: a disciplined 1-0 victory over FC Supra du Québec. Local defender Tyr Duhaney-Walker provided the decisive moment, scoring his first professional goal in his 50th appearance for his hometown club, an ideal storyline for a team that continues to embrace its local roots.

Between the posts, Haiti international Garissone Innocent delivered a standout performance in his CPL debut, recording nine saves, maintaining perfect distribution, and earning Player of the Week honours with a clean sheet effort that underlined his importance moving forward.

Standing in their way this Sunday is Vancouver FC, who arrive still searching for their first points of the season after three matches. Despite their early struggles, Vancouver has been competitive, falling narrowly in recent outings, including a 1-0 loss to Inter Toronto, and will be eager to spoil Ottawa’s homecoming.

History, however, favours the hosts. Atlético Ottawa holds a commanding all-time record in this matchup, with eight wins, four draws, and just two losses, outscoring Vancouver 26-11.

Beyond the action on the pitch, there will be another moment of recognition before kickoff. Canadian forward Ballou Tabla is set to be honoured for surpassing 100 appearances with the club, becoming just the second player in Atlético history to reach that milestone. With the all-time appearance record within reach, Tabla’s continued presence offers both leadership and continuity for a team balancing new faces with established stars.

Head Coach Diego Mejía has already expressed his eagerness to return to TD Place, knowing full well the impact the Ottawa faithful can have on the match. And if last season was any indication, that energy could once again be a difference-maker.

Sunday isn’t just about three points. It’s about welcoming champions home, reigniting a connection with supporters, and setting the tone for what could be another memorable season in the capital.

Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.and if you’ve ever experienced TD Place at full voice, you know this is one you won’t want to miss.

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/atletico-ottawa-vs-vancouver-fc-ottawa-ontario-04-26-2026/event/3100646CF09BAA25