AFC Toronto: The new Queens of the North?

By Bolarinwa Olajide, Sports Correspondent

When AFC Toronto kicked off their first-ever Northern Super League season, few expected them to be sitting top of the table by late August. But here they are. They have shown themselves to be a fearless, fast, and effective team.

From the first whistle, this expansion side has played like seasoned champions, blending youthful energy with international flair. And now, with the playoffs looming, the question is not if they can make history, it’s how far they can go.

In just 14 matches, AFC Toronto have racked up 8 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses, good enough for 25 points and the league’s top spot. This is more than impressive; it’s outrageous and unexpected for a brand-new club.

Head coach Marko Milanovic has built a side that’s as entertaining as it is effective. They press high, attack in waves, and have a knack for scoring goals.

Every great story needs its heroes, and AFC Toronto have plenty:

• Kaylee Hunter has been prolific for the team. At just 17, she’s already a superstar in the making. Ten goals in 16 games and a swagger that oozes greatness.

• Nigeria’s Esther Okoronkwo has been an important player for the team. She has been dubbed Queen of Assists because of her ability to both create and score. Her brace against Calgary Wild was pure magic.

• Nikayla Small is the midfield dynamo who never stops running. She has four goals, two assists, and countless key passes.

• Emma Regan is the captain, leader, and glue of the team. She holds it all together. Calm, composed, and always in control.

• Goalkeeper Sofia Manner has been ever regular between the sticks. When she’s on, nothing gets past her.

This season has already given fans moments to treasure with some big wins:

• Montreal Roses 0-2 AFC Toronto was the early-season shocker that announced their arrival.

• Vancouver Rise 2-3 AFC Toronto wasa comeback thriller that had fans screaming at their screens.

• AFC Toronto 3–0 Ottawa Rapid was a statement win at home that said, “We’re not just here to compete, we’re here to win.”

With just a handful of games left, AFC Toronto are chasing the league’s top seed heading into the playoffs.They are also chasing an inaugural NSL Championship. A trophy that would instantly put their name into Canadian soccer history.

If they keep this up, Toronto could be celebrating more than just a playoff place, they could be lifting silverware in their very first season.