Hunter’s brace powers AFC Toronto back to NSL final

Kaylee Hunter scored twice as AFC Toronto booked a ticket to the 2026 NSL final with a commanding 4-0 victory over Ottawa Rapid FC in the second leg of their semifinal matchup at TD Place in Ottawa.

Toronto came out aggressively and opened the scoring just seven minutes into the match. Ottawa goalkeeper Melissa Dagenais had the ball knocked away during a collision, allowing Hunter to collect the loose ball and slot it into an open net for the 1-0 lead.

Dagenais appeared to suffer an injury on the play and was stretchered off the pitch. Mollie Eriksson entered the match in relief of the injured goalkeeper.

Rapid FC goalie Dagenais stretchered off pitch after collision

Hunter doubled Toronto’s advantage in the 30th minute, getting a toe on the ball and directing it into the corner of the net to complete her brace.

AFC Toronto continued to apply pressure, adding a third goal through Lena Silano in the 45th minute to take a commanding lead into halftime.

Nikki Small extended the advantage in the 53rd minute, making it 4-0 as Toronto continued to dominate the second leg.

The victory secured an 8-2 aggregate win for AFC Toronto, sending the club back to the NSL final for a second consecutive season.

Toronto will now have a chance to avenge last year's final defeat when it returns to the championship stage on Nov. 14.

The 2026 NSL final will be played at TD Place in Ottawa.