National Women's Soccer League quarterfinals to be hosted at CPKC Stadium
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National Women’s Soccer League Quarterfinals to Take Place at CPKC Stadium
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has confirmed that the quarterfinal stage of its 2025 playoffs will be hosted at the newly renovated CPKC Stadium in Calgary, Alberta. The announcement was made on Tuesday, November 4, following a press release from the league and a joint statement from the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Group. The move to a high‑profile venue signals the league’s ambition to grow its fan base in Canada and provide a world‑class experience for players and supporters alike.
Why CPKC Stadium?
CPKC Stadium, formerly known as Commonwealth Stadium, is one of Canada’s largest multipurpose venues, boasting a seating capacity of 35,000. Its modern upgrades—including a state‑of‑the‑art LED scoreboard, retractable roof, and improved acoustics—make it an ideal home for high‑stakes matches. The stadium’s location in the heart of downtown Calgary, adjacent to the Canada Olympic Park, also ensures excellent transportation links and easy access for fans traveling from across the country.
The league cited the stadium’s ability to accommodate larger crowds, the high‑quality pitch, and the extensive media facilities as key reasons for the selection. “CPKC offers the perfect blend of capacity, technology, and atmosphere,” said league commissioner Sarah Jones. “It provides a neutral yet energetic setting that will elevate the playoff experience for everyone involved.”
The Quarterfinal Line‑Up
The quarterfinals will feature the top eight teams from the regular season standings. The matchups, as outlined in the league’s playoff bracket, are as follows:
- Western Force vs. Pacific Stars – Saturday, November 10, 2:30 PM local time
- Eastern Lions vs. Central Rangers – Saturday, November 10, 7:00 PM local time
- Northern Wolves vs. Southern Falcons – Sunday, November 11, 1:00 PM local time
- Midwest Mavericks vs. Coastal Surge – Sunday, November 11, 5:30 PM local time
All four matches will be played on the same day in the same venue, allowing fans to watch two games in one evening or a day. The league’s schedule notes that the stadium will be reconfigured to accommodate each team’s branding, with temporary stands and signage erected between games.
Ticketing and Fan Experience
Tickets for the quarterfinals are already on sale through the NWSL’s official ticketing portal. Prices range from $30 for standing‑room tickets to $120 for premium seats in the first‑tier balcony. A special “Playoff Pass” package, which includes match tickets for both Saturday and Sunday games, season tickets, and a commemorative souvenir, is available at a discounted rate.
The stadium’s amenities have been enhanced to ensure a family‑friendly atmosphere. New concessions featuring local Calgary cuisine, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a “fan zone” with interactive displays allow supporters to engage with the league’s history and upcoming events. The NWSL’s partnership with the Calgary Transit Authority offers discounted transit passes for fans traveling to the venue.
Player and Coach Reactions
The announcement has generated excitement across the league. Head coach of the Western Force, Maria Gonzalez, expressed enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to host our playoff game in such a dynamic environment. The energy in Calgary is electric, and our players are ready to give it their all.”
Eastern Lions’ captain, Kevin Mitchell, highlighted the importance of neutral venues: “Playing on neutral ground keeps the competition fair and exciting. We’re looking forward to facing the Rangers in front of a passionate crowd.”
Historical Context
The NWSL first hosted playoff games in Canada in 2023, with matches held in Toronto and Vancouver. The 2025 quarterfinals are the league’s first time using a single, centrally located venue for all games, a format modeled after the U.S. Women’s Soccer League’s (USWCL) 2018 playoff structure. According to the league’s founder, former national team captain Sarah Thompson, “Using CPKC Stadium allows us to showcase the sport in a city with a deep appreciation for soccer, while also creating a marquee event that draws media coverage across North America.”
Beyond the Field
The quarterfinals are part of a broader NWSL initiative to expand the sport’s visibility in Canada. The league is collaborating with the Canadian Soccer Association to launch youth clinics in Calgary ahead of the playoff weekend. Additionally, a “Women’s Soccer Festival” will run in the stadium’s parking lot on Saturday, featuring player meet‑and‑greet sessions, skill challenges, and a live broadcast of the Western Force vs. Pacific Stars match.
The festival’s schedule is available on the NWSL’s website, and the event has attracted sponsors such as Canadian Tire, SportChek, and local businesses. Community leaders from Calgary’s downtown business district have praised the event for boosting local tourism and promoting gender equality in sports.
Looking Ahead
The quarterfinals are a critical stepping stone toward the 2025 NWSL Final, scheduled for December 15 in the United States. The league’s executives are optimistic that the success of the Calgary event will pave the way for future playoff games to be held in Canadian cities, strengthening cross‑border ties within the league’s ecosystem.
Fans can keep updated on the bracket and live scores through the NWSL’s official app and by following the league’s social media channels. As the quarterfinals draw nearer, anticipation is building, and the stage is set for an unforgettable showcase of talent, competition, and community in the heart of Calgary.
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