MATCHDAY STORYLINES
SIX ROAD POINTS, ONE HOMECOMING
AFC Toronto returns to York Lions Stadium riding the momentum of back-to-back road victories, their strongest stretch of the season to date. The club secured all six points from a demanding two-match trip out west, becoming the best-performing road team in the Northern Super League through nine games.
In Vancouver, Toronto opened strong with an early long-range strike from captain Emma Regan and followed up with goals from Kaylee Hunter and Nikayla Small, who netted her first career NSL goal in the 3-2 win over Vancouver. Just three days later, the team traveled to Calgary and earned another hard-fought 2-1 win thanks to a composed brace from Small, her second and third goals in as many games. Despite the fatigue of three matches in eight days, AFC showed sharpness and resilience, climbing the league table with growing confidence.
WITH PRIDE, FOR ALL
This weekend’s home match is more than just a game, it’s a celebration of inclusivity, identity, and community as AFC Toronto proudly honours Pride Month at York Lions Stadium. The match will feature Pride-focused stadium activations that highlight the LGBTQ2S+ community in sport and beyond.
AFC Toronto’s Pride match underscores the club’s commitment to building a welcoming and inclusive environment, not only for its players and fans, but for the broader Toronto community. It’s a moment to stand together, celebrate progress, and champion a game that is truly for all.
RECOGNIZING RESILIENCE – WORLD REFUGEE DAY
AFC Toronto acknowledges World Refugee Day on June 20 and highlights the story of midfielder Nyota Katembo. Born in a refugee camp in Nyarugusu, Tanzania, Nyota came to Canada at age 2 after her family fled conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Now a professional footballer, her journey is a testament to perseverance and a reminder that talent knows no borders.
AFC, WORLDWIDE
AFC Toronto continues to make its mark on the global stage with three players called up to represent their national teams. Emma Regan, the club’s captain, joins the Canada Women’s National Team, bringing her leadership, tactical awareness, and composure to a squad preparing for key international fixtures. Esther Okoronkwo, who has three goals this season, continues to be a dynamic attacking option for Nigeria, using her pace, power, and finishing ability to make an impact with the Super Falcons. Goalkeeper Sierra Cota-Yarde earns a well- deserved nod from the Portugal Women’s National Team, recognized for her shot-stopping ability and growing presence between the posts.
MATCHDAY PREVIEW
KEYS TO THE MATCH - CONTROLLING THE NARRATIVE
After securing back-to-back road wins, AFC Toronto returns home with confidence and rhythm. Halifax, with veteran keeper Erin McLeod in goal, enters with a renewed edge after earning their first win of the season against Ottawa Rapid FC. Still, the Tides sit at 1-5-1, while AFC Toronto holds a strong home-field advantage and the league’s best road record.
In their previous meeting on May 17 in Halifax, Toronto secured a 1-0 win thanks to an early fifth-minute goal from Colby Barnett, her first in the NSL. Midfielder Nikki Small played provider that day, and the team’s defensive shape – highlighted by a late-game intervention from Sarah Rollins – held firm for the clean sheet.
To stay on the front foot, Toronto will aim to maintain intensity from kickoff, dictate possession through midfield control, and be clinical in the final third. With offensive contributions coming from multiple players, the team’s balance has become a growing strength.
Beyond the tactics, this match is about momentum and identity. As the season approaches its halfway point, AFC Toronto has a chance to reinforce who they are: a gritty, talented, and resilient group capable of rising to the occasion. A strong performance in front of the home crowd would not only affirm their place near the top of the table, it would continue to build belief, both within the locker room and across the fanbase.