Tension rising at Saputo Stadium. The frustration of the supporters who follow her. Then, deliverance. Euphoria. The touch of destiny of Ismaël Koné, at the 68e minute.
Posted at 10:28 p.m.
The Quebecer’s goal, followed by Djordje Mihailovic’s penalty in stoppage time, sent CF Montreal to the Eastern semi-finals on Sunday night, eliminating Orlando City at the same time by virtue of a 2- 0.
The net of Koné, the crowd – noisy and enthusiastic as possible – awaited it. And she was finally rewarded with a great deed.
As throughout the match, the CFM buzzed in the preceding minutes. Joel Waterman eventually grabbed the ball in the final third. He finds Kei Kamara in the box, who sends to Djordje Mihailovic in the first intention. The latter sends to a free Koné on the left. Who sends it between the two legs of Pedro Gallese.
Smoke bombs, shouts of joy, and maybe a few loud sighs of relief.
PHOTO DENIS GERMAIN, THE PRESS
Because during the previous 67 minutes, the Bleu-et-noir came up against a tough Orlando City. The Lions had not come to play, but to disturb the pleasure of the locals. Do you want a convincing example? City haven’t had a shot on target in the game. That said, the only two of the Montrealers were obtained on his two goals.
Montreal was fired up for this game. Rarely have we seen a Saputo stadium so energized. But two actors of the meeting have gradually changed the atmosphere in the enclosure.
Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and official Esmail Elfath. The former has drawn the wrath of the stands by wasting a lot of time putting the ball back into play every time he had the opportunity.
Meanwhile, Elfath looked at his watch. And did not crack down. Fans let him know their displeasure, especially in the first half.
They lost their hinges when he decided not to reprimand a foul by Cesar Araújo on Lassi Lappalainen in the box, in the 45the minute. The packed house demanded a penalty. CF Montreal too. But nothing worked.
In the end, these adventures will only be fleeting frustrations for CF Montreal. See you next Sunday, against New York City FC or Inter Miami.