Atlético Ottawa's Alberto Zapater will play his final regular season home game this Sunday, October 12th before retiring at the end of the 2025 Canadian Premier League (CPL) season. The 40-year-old Spanish midfielder arrived in the Nation's Capital in June of 2023, having now spent two and half seasons with the club. In honour of Zapa's last dance with Atleti, let's take a look back at some of his most memorable moments in the red and white stripes.
Landmark Arrival
Zapater's arrival in 2023 was regarded as a the most significant signing in league history. The 38-year-old boasted an illustrious playing career, with stints in the top divisions of Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Russia. Having played alongside the names of Cesc Fabregas, and David Silva in the Spanish youth national team setup up, Zapa brought distinguished pedigree, and a veteran presence to the Ottawa midfield. His Atleti arrival also served to solidify Ottawa as an ideal landing spot for top level international talent.
Zapa's first match in Ottawa
Zapater made his first appearance on July 9th 2023 in a 2-0 win over Valour FC. The half-time substitute was welcomed with a deafening round of applause from the Atleti faithful, stepping into the holding midfield role anchoring the team to a shutout victory. He would go onto complete the full 90' in his next 16 Candian Premier League matches, making an instant impact in his inaugural season.
Last minute header vs Halifax in 2024
With five goals scored during his time with the Rojiblancos, none would be more impactful than his last-minute header against Halifax Wanderers in the 2024 season. With Atleti down 2-1 in the match, Zapater popped up in the 11th minute of stoppage time to head home a picture-perfect cross from Dani Morer, securing the draw and sending TD Place into a frenzy. This would also be the only time Zapa would score in back-to-back CPL games. El Toro was built for the big moments.
Supporting Special Olympics Ottawa
Zapater will also be fondly remembered for his work within the Ottawa community. Off the pitch, he would often make time for local organizations, and causes, and ingrained himself into the local fabric of this city. He twice took the time to visit local volunteer-driven organization, Special Olympics Ottawa. From playing footy with his newly made friends, and supporting the delivery of their soccer training sessions, Zapa always made time for special causes and did it with a smile on his face.
Connection to the fans
Departing his boyhood club of Real Zaragoza, after 422 appearances, Zapater chose Ottawa as the final stop in his career, citing a new challenge and the incredible opportunity to bring his family to Canada. Zapa fully embraced his new surroundings, deeply embedding himself in the city and making connections both on and off the pitch. Supporter will note that Zapa frequently turned up to viewing parties, embraced Canadian culture, and brought family values to the team. He quickly became a fan favourite, with and his signature chant at Zaragoza was soon heard ringing throughout the stands at TD Place.
