York United FC returned to the road for Matchday 3 of the 2025 Canadian Premier League season, facing Atlético Ottawa on Saturday afternoon at TD Place in the first edition of the provincial derby this year.
It was a fast-paced, back-and-forth contest that produced five goals, dramatic moments, and late heartbreak for the Nine Stripes, as Ottawa snatched a 3-2 win deep into stoppage time.
Julian Altobelli opened the scoring with a brilliant diving header in the 11th minute, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Max Ferrari to give York a deserved early lead. The goal continued Altobelli’s strong start to the season, having already netted twice in the season opener.
York’s attacking momentum carried on through the first half, with the forward line creating a series of dangerous opportunities. Despite several close calls, the visitors held a one-goal advantage going into halftime.
The hosts responded quickly after the restart, scoring twice in short succession. Sam Salter equalized with a close-range finish before former York midfielder Manny Aparicio put Ottawa ahead with a strike from distance.
Even so, York stayed composed and continued to push forward. Their persistence was rewarded when Riley Ferrazzo’s intended cross found its way into the back of the net, pulling the visitors level at 2-2 with under ten minutes to go.
In the closing stages, York nearly grabbed a winner when Shola Jimoh fired just over the bar. But in the fifth minute of added time, a loose ball fell to Noah Abatneh, who converted to give the hosts a last-gasp 3-2 victory.
Despite the result, there were plenty of positives to take from York’s performance, including the energy in attack, the finishing of Altobelli, and the collective resilience to battle back into the game.
The focus now shifts to the next challenge: the season’s first 905 Derby, as York United prepare to host Forge FC on Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. ET at York Lions Stadium.
Tickets are available now HERE.