Atlético Ottawa hosted their final home game of the regular season Saturday in a 0-1 loss to Valour FC in front of 7,044 fans. Iliadis started the game, making his 10th appearance for the club. Still looking for his debut goal, Ilias came real close hitting the woodwork off a corner kick.
A solid performance in the middle of the pitch from the Greek-Canadian, completing 31 of 35 passes in 90 minutes for a pass completion of 89%. Although he wasn’t very successful with his crosses (2/11), he had success with long balls (5/7). Among his 65 touches of the ball, he completed two of three dribbles, creating one chance for a teammate.
He also had a decent defensive game. He made four clearances, recovered the ball five times, and intercepted it three times. He won half of his duels on the pitch (8/16). He did however commit two fouls and was cautioned at the end of the first half.
Sitting in the last playoff spot (5th), the final two games against York and Forge will be crucial for Ottawa to secure their spot in the playoffs with York just 1 point behind and Forge already qualified. What can Iliadis do to help his team in the final stretch?
The consistent minutes that he’s earned in Ottawa along with the important games remaining and potential post season will prove crucial upon his return to CF Montréal in January.
