Canada’s men’s and women’s flag football teams have progressed to the quarterfinals of the world championships in Germany. The men’s team, after a 37-28 loss to Japan, finished second in their group with a 2-1 record. Due to Nigeria’s withdrawal from the tournament because of visa issues, Canada received an automatic win. Quarterback Take Taniguchi of Japan threw five touchdown passes, while Canada’s Michael O’Connor, a former CFL quarterback, threw three TD passes. In the quarterfinals, Canada will face American Samoa, who upset the top-ranked U.S. team.
On the other hand, the women’s team secured the top spot in their group with a flawless 3-0 record, defeating Japan 34-20. They are set to play against Austria in the quarterfinals, with a potential semifinal match against the victor of Mexico and Spain. Quarterback Sara Parker led the team with four touchdown passes, including two to Caroline Moquin-Joubert. Additional touchdowns came from Alexane Fournier, Marianne Quirion, and Frederique Morneau, who scored a rushing touchdown. Canada mounted a remarkable comeback in the second half, erasing a 20-13 halftime deficit with 21 unanswered points.
Apart from the quest for a world title, teams are also vying for a chance to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The top two finishers at the world championships will secure Olympic berths, marking the sport’s debut in the Olympic program. All matches of the event can be live-streamed on CBCSports.ca and CBC Gem.