Canada’s national women’s flag football team secured the world championship title by triumphing over the United States at the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women’s team, having already secured a spot with a decisive 20-6 victory against top-seeded Mexico in the semifinals, concluded a flawless tournament with a 27-20 win in the final against the Americans.
Frederique Morneau stood out with three touchdown receptions for Canada, with quarterback Sara Parker connecting with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another crucial score. Parker, who recorded a total of 23 touchdown passes, was recognized as the most valuable player of the women’s tournament.
On the other hand, the Canadian men’s team also made headlines by earning a berth at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after defeating Mexico 34-26 in the third-place playoff. Quarterback Michael O’Connor showcased an impressive performance with 294 passing yards and five touchdowns. Former NFL tight-end Antony Auclair contributed significantly with 149 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions from O’Connor. Daniel Petermann and James Drysdale also found the end zone twice and once, respectively.
With their victory, Canada secured a place in the LA28 Olympics alongside the women’s team, setting the stage for an exciting future for Canadian flag football. The top two teams from each flag football event, excluding the host Americans, qualified for the upcoming Olympic debut of flag football in Los Angeles.
Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, the Canadian team rallied in the third-place match against Mexico, seizing the opportunity to secure an Olympic qualification as the American men advanced to the final. Head coach Paul LaPolice commended the team’s dedication and hard work, emphasizing the significance of earning an Olympic spot through sheer determination.
The men’s final saw the U.S. emerging victorious over Italy with a score of 42-26, adding to the intense competition and excitement surrounding flag football at the global level.