TORONTO, ON (October 28, 2026) – AFC Toronto opens its Northern Super League playoff campaign this Saturday, October 31, hosting provincial rivals Ottawa Rapid FC at York Lions Stadium for the first leg of the two-leg semifinal, presented by Canadian Tire. The matchday will feature Halloween-themed activities, live music, drink specials, and family-friendly activations as Toronto begins its pursuit of the Northern Super League Championship.

The Battle of Ontario
The road to the championship begins at home as AFC Toronto takes on Ottawa Rapid FC in a two-leg semifinal, with a place in the Northern Super League Championship final on the line. Toronto finished the regular season third in the standings with 39 points and will look to secure a positive result at home before the series shifts to Ottawa for the second leg on November 7.

With the stakes high, AFC Toronto is calling on its supporters to bring their energy to York Lions Stadium and get behind the team as the playoff race begins. The opening leg offers fans the opportunity to support the club at home before the series moves to Ottawa the following weekend.

MATCHDAY ACTIVATIONS PRESENTED BY CANADIAN TIRE
Canadian Tire is inviting fans to stop by the My Team, My Sign booth in Footy Fest to create a handmade sign and show their support for AFC Toronto. Get creative, show your team pride and bring your sign to the stands to cheer on the team!

Arrive early and stop by Gates 1 or 2 to pick up an exclusive Canadian Tire hat to complete your matchday look. Hats are available while supplies last, so be sure to get there early!

Keep your soccer IQ sharp at halftime with Crack the Code by Canadian Tire. Watch closely as a series of emojis reveals a well-known soccer phrase, then see if you can figure out the secret message.

HALLOWEEN MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
Get into the Halloween spirit at York Lions Stadium with themed activities, special offers and family-friendly fun before kickoff.

Halloween Happy Hour | 1–2 p.m.
Arrive early and kick off matchday with Halloween Happy Hour from 1–2 p.m.! Grab a $5 beer, then stop by the merch stand to save up to 25% on AFC Toronto gear. It’s the perfect time to meet up with friends, get into the Halloween spirit and gear up for playoff soccer.

Footy Fest Trick-or-Treat Trail
Young supporters can take part in the Footy Fest Trick-or-Treat Trail at the south end of the stadium, visiting participating booths to collect treats and enjoy a family-friendly Halloween experience.

Halloween Costume Contest
Supporters are encouraged to dress up for the occasion, whether in spooky, creative or football-inspired costumes. Fans will have the chance to show off their Halloween spirit and compete for prizes.

MORE ON MATCHDAY
Fans can enjoy additional activities throughout Footy Fest and the stadium.

DJ Hector on the Decks
DJ Hector will provide live music throughout the pre-match festivities, helping build the energy at York Lions Stadium as supporters gather for the playoff opener.

Try The Twelfth, AFC Toronto’s Limited-Edition Beer
AFC Toronto has teamed up with Side Launch Brewing to launch The Twelfth, a limited-edition beer celebrating the club and its supporters. Fans can purchase a can on matchday and stop by the Guest Services table in Footy Fest at the south end of the stadium for a chance to win a case. Participants must be 19 or older to enter.

Sparkle Row by Hillberg & Berk
Bring the energy and Hillberg & Berk will bring the sparkle! Keep the noise levels up throughout the match because you never know when your row might be called for a surprise giveaway. The loudest fans in the stadium could be in for a special prize!

BMO Mini Soccer Challenge
Think you can score past your opponent? Head to Footy Fest and take a seat at the BMO Mini Soccer Challenge, a fast-paced game where you’ll go toe-to-toe with another fan and try to score between their legs. Show off your quick feet, take your shot and you could win a BMO soccer ball!

Sip in Style
Stop by the Westland Insurance tent in Footy Fest to pick up a free, limited-edition coozie while supplies last. It’s the perfect matchday accessory to take home!

For Your Furry Fan
AFC Toronto and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society are offering exclusive limited-edition AFC Toronto pet bandannas, available in-stadium. One hundred per cent of proceeds will go directly to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society to help animals in need.

Match Details
AFC Toronto vs. Ottawa Rapid FC
York Lions Stadium
Saturday, October 31 | 2:00 p.m. ET
Gates open at 1:00 p.m. ET

The match will be broadcast live on CBC.

Join AFC Toronto for the opening leg of the Battle of Ontario and be part of the playoff atmosphere at York Lions Stadium. Get your tickets here.