Alexis Sánchez remains on bench as CF Montréal loses Canadian Championship final

Alexis Sánchez did not see any playing time during the Canadian Championship final, as CF Montréal fell to Forge in a penalty shootout. Despite warming up for over 50 minutes, the Chilean striker remained on the bench throughout the match and the subsequent penalty kicks, which Forge won 4-2.

Montreal coach Philippe Eullaffroy addressed the decision, stating that his priority was managing the team's tactical needs rather than playing a high-profile athlete. Eullaffroy noted that while he intended to use Sánchez, the team's struggle playing with 10 men made it difficult to execute the original plan. He emphasized, “Famous player or not, we try to see what he can offer on the field. We are 10 against 11. We cannot change everything just to have fun and play the famous player. It is my responsibility.”

Reports from the stadium indicated a disorganized end to the match, with footage suggesting Sánchez was called to prepare for entry in the final seconds of extra time, but the game concluded before he could take the pitch.