All season long, CanPL.ca reviewed key performers from each Canadian Premier League match, giving due credit to players who impressed over 90 minutes. Now, we offer this one last look at standout performers for Atlético Ottawa to bring a close to an exciting second (or, in Ottawa's case, first) CPL campaign.
Atlético Ottawa got off the mark in the Canadian Premier League in 2020, putting together a competitive squad on short notice for the club's maiden voyage. Buoyed by a combination of youngsters hungry to prove themselves, veterans looking for a rejuvenation, and at least one magical international, the inaugural Ottawa team made more noise at The Island Games than anyone might've expected, with stunning wins over Cavalry FC and Pacific FC. Although they landed seventh in the CPL standings, it's hard to be too down on this club, who overcame some serious adversity to compete in 2020. A host of players deserve credit for strong showings in PEI — from captain Ben Fisk, to striker Malcolm Shaw, to young Malyk Hamilton — but this trio stood above the rest for the memorable moments they created in Atlético's first CPL campaign. Here are CanPL.ca's top three performers from Atlético Ottawa's inaugural CPL season in 2020.
RELATED READING: Atlético Ottawa: 2020 season in review
3 Key Performers for 2020
3 Key Performers for 2020
1. Francisco Acuña
- Position: Attacking midfielder
- Appearances (starts): 7 (7)
- Minutes played: 531
- Goals: 2 (team-high)
- Assists: 2 (T-2nd in CPL)
- Pass accuracy: 83.5%
- Open play chances: 10 (T-2nd in CPL)
- Successful 1v1s: 12 (team-high)
2. Nacho Zabal
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Appearances (starts): 7 (7)
- Minutes played: 630
- Saves: 24 (1st in CPL)
- Recoveries: 74 (3rd in CPL)
- Clean sheets: 2
3. Mohamed Kourouma
- Position: Winger
- Appearances (starts): 7 (7)
- Minutes played: 617
- Shots on target: 6 (team-high)
- Duels won: 39 (team-high)
- Crosses: 32 (team-high)
- Key passes: 6 (2nd on team)
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