In the return of the Concacaf League to Tim Hortons Field, Forge FC and Panamanian side Independiente de la Chorrera played out a 0-0 draw on Tuesday night in Leg 1 of their round of 16 tie as neither side managed to solve the other.

Having not played since last Wednesday’s Canadian Championship win over Valour FC, Forge put out a very strong lineup, making just one change from their previous XI — Kwame Awuah checking in to replace Garven Metusala at left wingback.

Forge had to withstand some pressure in the early going, as Independiente pressed aggressively and generated some good chances — one of which went in the net, but was called back for offside (the third such call against the Panamanian side in the first 10 minutes).

Soon, though, Forge settled into the game a little better, finding more possession and looking to play forward.

The hosts thought they’d caught their break in the 36th minute, as a run into the box from David Choinière was cut off by a sliding Independiente player, who got the ball tangled in his right arm. The referee pointed to the spot immediately, and Daniel Krutzen stepped up for the penalty kick, but his attempt to the low left corner was parried by goalkeeper César Samudio.

GOA- Nope ?@ForgeFCHamilton defender Daniel Krutzen is DENIED from the penalty spot as the Independiente goalkeeper guesses right!#SCL21 ? | ? https://t.co/hishXeHsKB pic.twitter.com/BZNVpqCtDe

— OneSoccer (@onesoccer) September 22, 2021

In the second half, Forge took greater control of the game as rain began to fall in Hamilton. The pace of the contest slowed down a bit, as Forge claimed more possession and looked to break down their opponents.

Kyle Bekker came very close to opening the scoring before the hour mark with a dipping shot from distance that the goalkeeper barely palmed over the bar. Still, though, both sides struggled to find the edge needed to score.

Forge coach Bobby Smyrniotis sought to add a little extra energy to his attack around the 65th minute, as veteran striker Mo Babouli came into the game in place of youngster Woobens Pacius, and Garven Metusala entered to take the right wingback spot of Jonathan Grant. Not 10 minutes later, Emery Welshman and Paolo Sabak came in as well to add extra energy up front.

Although the Hammers had the great majority of the chances down the stretch as they pressed for a goal, they couldn’t quite crack the Independiente defence. So, the two sides were forced to settle for a scoreless draw, as Forge managed to prevent any away goals and head into Leg 2 with a clean slate.

BOX SCORE

Goals

None

Discipline

31′ — Yellow: Tristan Borges (Forge FC)
74′ — Yellow: Rafael Aguila (Independiente)