Thomas Müller and Brian White scored second-half goals as Vancouver Whitecaps FC defeated Canadian Premier League side Cavalry FC, 4-1, in the first leg of their 2026 Canadian Championship quarterfinal series on Wednesday at Swangard Stadium.
Playing in their first match of the tournament after receiving a bye as title-holders, the Whitecaps now carry a commanding three-goal aggregate lead into the return leg at ATCO Field on July 13.
The sides traded first-half goals, as Vancouver forced an own goal just two minutes after kickoff, only to see Cavalry find a 45th-minute equalizer through Daan Klomp.
But Vancouver restored their lead for good in the 61st minute when White's shot from inside the penalty area was blocked by a Cavalry defender, with Müller slotting home the loose ball from close range.
The Whitecaps struck again just three minutes later when Édier Ocampo's shot was saved at the end of a counterattack, but White was there to head home the rebound.
Rayan Elloumi capped the scoring in the 75th minute, punishing a Cavalry giveaway to give Vancouver command of the series.
The tournament winner qualifies for the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup. Vancouver have won the domestic cup four years in a row.
Goals
Next Up
- VAN: Monday, July 13 at Cavalry FC - 9:30 pm ET | Canadian Championship
- CAV: Monday, July 13 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC - 9:30 pm ET | Canadian Championship
