From FIFA to the Real Thing
Ottawa soccer fans have a new reason to cheer, and this one comes straight from the back line. Atlético Ottawa defender Noah Abatneh recently shared the story of how he found out he'd been called up to the Canadian men's national soccer team — and it's about as relatable as it gets. Abatneh says he was simply at home, controller in hand, playing a FIFA video game, when his phone rang with the news that would make his childhood dreams come true.
It's the kind of moment every young player imagines, and for Abatneh, it arrived in January when he got the call to join Team Canada. He didn't have to wait long to make it official either — he made his international debut against Guatemala, pulling on the Maple Leaf for the first time in a competitive match.
A Proud Ottawa Connection
Abatneh spoke with CBC's Jayden Dill about the experience, describing himself as "very proud" to have represented his country. For Ottawa, the moment carries extra weight. Abatneh plays his club soccer right here in the capital with Atlético Ottawa, the city's Canadian Premier League side that's become a genuine source of local pride since joining the league. Seeing one of the team's own defenders get the call up to the national program is a big deal for a club still building its reputation and fanbase in the city.
Atlético Ottawa has increasingly served as a launching pad for Canadian talent, and Abatneh's rise fits right into that story. Local players making the jump from TD Place to the international stage gives Ottawa soccer fans a direct rooting interest whenever Canada takes the field, and it reinforces the idea that the capital's CPL club is more than just a mid-table team — it's a legitimate pipeline to the national program.
What's Next
For Abatneh, the debut against Guatemala is likely just the beginning. Players who earn an early cap under the current program often find themselves in the mix for future call-ups, especially with Canada's continued push to build depth ahead of major international tournaments. Ottawa supporters will no doubt be watching closely to see if their hometown defender keeps working his way into the setup.
In the meantime, Abatneh returns to Atlético Ottawa duty, where his performances on the pitch at TD Place will now come with a little extra scrutiny — and a lot more local pride — attached. For a club still growing its identity in a city known more for hockey, moments like this help put Ottawa soccer on the map.
Source: CBC Ottawa
