CF Montréal faced a chaotic final moments in the Canadian Championship final as Alexis Sanchez remained on the bench despite a dramatic last‑minute substitution attempt, according to RDS. The Montreal team lost to Hamilton’s Forge FC in a penalty shootout, as the confusion over Sanchez’s inactivity drew attention from fans and analysts.
The Final Moments of Confusion
With three minutes remaining in extra time during the Canadian Championship final at Stade Saputo, Montreal’s bench erupted as fans chanted for Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean forward, who had played 90 minutes in a previous match, was seen warming up but was not immediately subbed in. According to RDS, coach Philippe Eullaffroy had an exchange with Sanchez, who was later seen removing layers of clothing to reveal his jersey. However, the referee’s whistle signaled the end of the opportunity to make the substitution.
The confusion escalated as Montreal’s 10‑man side, reduced by a red card to Brayan Vera, struggled to maintain control. Forge FC ultimately prevailed in the penalty shootout, securing their third Canadian Championship title, as reported by Le Devoir. The victory also earned Forge FC a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League.
Eullaffroy’s Strategic Rationale
Eullaffroy defended his decision to keep Sanchez on the bench, citing the need to maintain a balanced attack. “I tried to be creative and see how I could get him on the field,” he said, according to RDS. “But when you’re down to 10 men, you need a point of reference higher up the field.” The coach explained that he prioritized keeping Prince Owusu on the pitch, who later saw Daniel Rios score the equalizer in the second half.
Sanchez’s limited involvement raised questions about his role with the team. noted that Montreal’s goalkeeper Samsy Keita, a 17‑year‑old academy product, was prepared to enter the game for the penalty shootout, a decision Eullaffroy justified as “performance‑focused.” However, the move drew criticism for its risk, given Keita’s lack of professional experience.
Game Context and Key Moments
The match was marked by missed opportunities for Montreal. reported that Montreal dominated possession but failed to capitalize, with players like Fabian Herbers and Daniel Rios failing to convert chances. The breakthrough came in the first half when Antoine Batisse scored for Forge FC, while Rios equalized for Montreal.
Montreal’s struggles were compounded by Vera’s red card in the second half, which left them shorthanded. Forge FC’s goalkeeper Dimitry Bertaud made critical saves, including stopping a penalty from Owusu, to secure the victory.
Legacy of Sanchez’s Role
Sanchez’s limited impact has fueled ongoing debates about his fit with Montreal. highlighted that his role has been a point of contention between the club’s management and coaching staff, with discussions about how best to deploy him.
What’s Next for Montreal?
As the dust settles on the Canadian Championship, the events of the final will remain a talking point for fans and analysts, highlighting the fine margins that define elite sports.
